JBCA Certification
Pursue biblical counselor certification through a comprehensive three-phase process designed to equip you for faithful ministry, from foundational training to full certification.
Phase 1: Foundation
Establish your biblical and theological foundation for counseling ministry through comprehensive training and study.
Phase 2: Examination
Demonstrate your theological understanding and counseling application through comprehensive written examinations.
Phase 3: Supervision
Complete supervised counseling experience under the guidance of an ACBC Fellow to demonstrate practical competency.
Certification Process Overview
JBCA certification is a rigorous three-phase process that ensures counselors are thoroughly equipped with biblical foundations, practical skills, and supervised experience. Each phase builds upon the previous one, creating a comprehensive training pathway.
Our training is modeled on the certification process of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC). JBCA is not an official partner of ACBC.
The Three Phases of Certification
Establish your biblical and theological foundation for counseling ministry through comprehensive training and study.
Requirements:
- Complete Fundamentals Training Course (30+ hours)
- Complete required reading
- Complete observation videos and assessments
Phase 1 Costs:
- Seminar fees for Modules 1–4 (the online course is being renewed)
- Books & Resources: ¥5,000 minimum
- Observation videos: Free
Training Seminars
This seminar is held twice a year, once every six months, and is a program that is completed over four sessions in two years. At the end of each seminar, a homework assignment (a growth task) is given. By submitting it by the deadline, participants can proceed to the next seminar.
In Module 1, you will learn from the Bible about counseling based on Scripture and spiritual growth. Upon completing Module 1, you will gain an understanding of what biblical counseling entails. You will also learn how to apply biblical counseling in the process of nurturing disciples of Jesus.
In Module 2, you will learn the process and procedures of counseling based on the Bible. You will study practical methods for providing counseling (advice) grounded in the Bible to those in need of spiritual care.
In Module 3, common issues that often require counseling will be addressed, and you will learn how to think about and deal with them from God's perspective. You will study how to provide help with problems encountered in various areas of life, such as marriage, family, work, and relationships.
In Module 4, you will learn how to use charts, materials, books, and other resources that are helpful in counseling. Those who complete Module 4 will be equipped to counsel brothers and sisters facing problems using the Bible. You will also be prepared to practice disciple-making based on the Bible within your own church.
Online Course
Being renewed
We are currently renewing our online course. Details of the new course will be announced on this site and in our email updates; to receive them, sign up with Stay in touch at the bottom of this page.
Already taking the current course? Please contact us as before.
Ask about the online courseDemonstrate your theological understanding and counseling application through comprehensive written examinations.
Complete supervised counseling experience under the guidance of an ACBC Fellow to demonstrate practical competency.
Total Certification Investment
Costs are spread over time as you progress through each phase at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about certification costs, time limits, exams and supervision are now on our FAQ page, with answers to other common questions.
Certification questions