ACBC certification equips you in utilizing the Scriptures to address problems people face. Our biblically-grounded process is made up of three phases: learning, exams and evaluations, and supervision.
Complete the Fundamentals Training Course, counseling observations, and approved reading
Complete 50 sessions of supervised
counseling with an ACBC Fellow
Complete your theology
and counseling exams
Learn more about the benefits of membership and how to maintain your certified status annually
ACBC comes alongside individuals to train and certify that they are faithfully ministering the Word of God in the counseling room. We offer a comprehensive biblical counseling certification program that is rigorous, but attainable.
Approximately $1400
2 year average completion
4-year deadline for Phases 1 and 2
1-year deadline for Phase 3
Regardless of the completion of any or all of the phases of the certification process, applicants and their churches must affirm certain doctrinal standards to the satisfaction of ACBC before earning certified status. Please read them carefully before you begin: Standards of Doctrine, Standards of Conduct, Covenant
ACBC reserves the right to deny applicants admittance to or advancement within the certification process if their professional affiliations or occupations restrict or do not align with our doctrinal and methodological standards. To find out more about what we believe, please visit our Beliefs page.
ACBC does not guarantee certified status to those who complete the three phases of the certification process. In order to become certified and maintain certified status, applicants must also meet several membership requirements that involve external vetting and recommendation. Please read the complete list here before you begin: Policies and Procedures, Constitution and Bylaws
– Training under key leaders in biblical counseling
– Accountability for faithful counseling practice
– Endorsement from the largest biblical counseling association in the world
– Recommendation on our Find a Counselor on-line map
– Networking with like-minded biblical counselors
– Exclusive invites to our live training webinars
– Discounts on registration for ACBC events
– Free Member Resources online through your Member Account
– Invitation to contribute to our blog and journal
Every year, members are expected to renew their certification. This process involves the following elements:
– Complete a background check (every five years)
– Affirm the Membership Covenant
– Affirm the Standards of Doctrine, Standards of Conduct, and Statements from the Board
– Request a pastoral evaluation and endorsement indicating that you are under the church’s authority in good standing
– Pay membership renewal dues
– Sign the Fellow Commitment (for Fellows only)
– Meet CEU requirement (every two years)
Members are expected to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to maintain their certification. CEUs can only be earned within two-year earning windows. For new members, the earning window begins on January 1 following the year the member becomes certified. For more information, visit our CEU information page and watch the video below.
