Certificate Requirements
This certificate trains students to more effectively serve individuals who are experiencing mental health related distress in a Christian ministry context. It is intended for pastors or church volunteers (e.g. small group leaders) who would like to be better equipped to work with individuals and groups in their ministries (without pursuing a professional counseling license at this time). It is taught by professional, Christian counselors with ministry experience, with attention to what psychological knowledge and skills may be useful within this context. More specifically, this certificate enables students to identify the types of issues their parishioners may be facing (e.g., mental illness, trauma); improve skills to interact and triage with people who are struggling; and understand when and how to refer for a higher level of care.
Students seeking a Lay Counseling certificate must hold a bachelor's degree and complete the following requirements with a minimum 2.0 GPA and complete COU501-506 with a grade of C- or higher.
COU507 Lay Counseling Practicum may be added for those who want to complement their certificate with hands on experience.
| COU 501 | Basic Counseling Skills for Church Ministry | 1 |
| COU 502 | Anxiety Disorders, Trauma, and Addiction | 1 |
| COU 503 | Ethics, Boundaries, and Reporting | 1 |
| COU 504 | Mood Disorders, Grief, and Loss | 1 |
| COU 505 | Couples, Youth, and Families | 1 |
| COU 506 | Crisis and Suicide | 1 |