The Doctor of Divinity in Christian Counseling is a terminal degree that provides advanced theological and counseling training for individuals seeking to integrate Christian faith, theology, and counseling principles at an expert level. This program prepares graduates to make significant contributions to the field of Christian counseling through advanced research, clinical practice, leadership, and the application of theological insights to counseling practice.
Program Objectives:
- Advanced Theological Integration: The Doctor of Divinity in Christian Counseling program aims to deepen students’ understanding of Christian theology and its integration with counseling theory and practice. Students will explore topics such as theological anthropology, spiritual formation, theological ethics, and the integration of psychology and theology to enhance their ability to provide holistic counseling services.
- Advanced Counseling Theory and Practice: Students will develop advanced expertise in counseling theories, techniques, and evidence-based practices within a Christian context. They will study specialized areas of counseling, such as trauma counseling, pastoral care, family therapy, addictions counseling, and crisis intervention, while incorporating Christian principles and ethics into their clinical work.
- Advanced Research and Scholarship: The program equips students with advanced research skills to engage in scholarly inquiry in the field of Christian counseling. Students will develop expertise in research methodologies, critically analyze existing literature, and contribute to the development of Christian counseling knowledge through original research projects.
- Pastoral Leadership and Care: Graduates will be prepared to provide pastoral leadership and care within counseling ministries, churches, and Christian organizations. They will develop skills in pastoral counseling, organizational leadership, program development, and spiritual formation to effectively serve individuals, families, and communities.
- Integration of Faith and Practice: The program emphasizes the integration of faith and practice in counseling. Students will explore how biblical principles, Christian traditions, and theological insights inform counseling approaches, ethical decision-making, and the understanding of human suffering and healing.
Potential Career and Educational Options:
- Counseling Ministry Director: Graduates of the Doctor of Divinity in Christian Counseling program can serve as directors of counseling ministries or Christian organizations. They will provide vision, strategic planning, and oversight to counseling programs, ensuring the integration of Christian principles and the provision of high-quality counseling services.
- Clinical Supervisor: Graduates can assume leadership roles as clinical supervisors, guiding and mentoring counselors-in-training or practicing counselors. They may work in counseling centers, ministry settings, or private practice, providing supervision that integrates theological insights and promoting the professional growth of counselors.
- Counseling Educator: The degree prepares individuals to teach and mentor future Christian counselors. Graduates can pursue academic positions in seminaries, Christian universities, or counseling training programs, where they can impart their knowledge and expertise to students preparing for counseling ministry.
- Pastoral Counselor: Graduates can serve as pastoral counselors within churches or pastoral care settings, providing spiritual guidance and counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. They will integrate their advanced theological understanding and counseling skills to address spiritual, emotional, and relational needs.
- Advanced Clinical Practitioner: Graduates may choose to continue their clinical practice as advanced Christian counselors, specializing in areas such as trauma, addiction, marriage and family therapy, or grief counseling. They may establish private practices or work within counseling centers, churches, or Christian organizations.