PhD in Clinical Pastoral Counseling Degree Program Description

The Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Pastoral Counseling Program (Ph.D.) is designed to give the student an advanced background in Christian Counseling and incorporates the programs which will allow for National Christian Counseling Association (NCCA) licensure. If you are considering a PhD in Clinical Pastoral Counseling, this program provides comprehensive training over 72 semester hours.

Each student will be assigned a mentor to help him or her throughout the program. For those enrolled in a Clinical Pastoral Counseling PhD, mentoring is an important part of the experience.

NCCA’s Certification/Licensure Program is not to be confused with state licensure. Most states have regulatory laws governing the practice of psychology. Many states also have laws governing the practice of general counseling. States recognize that counseling is one of the responsibilities of the church and its clergy. For this reason the state does not interfere with ministry counseling as long as the counseling is provided under the following conditions: The counselor is ordained, commissioned or licensed, and the counseling is represented as being provided by a Christian or pastoral counselor. In summary, pursuing a PhD in Clinical Pastoral Counseling brings unique benefits and responsibilities.

Approx. total cost: $9,722

Core courses: $425, Advanced courses: $376. NCCA dues: $50, background check $100 (both optional), 35 APS Reports: $33 each, Dissertation: $700 (compilation of APS case studies), Twelve (12) Advanced Courses of student’s choice. Additional Requirements Provide all required documentation per the enrollment agreement. Submit annual NCCA dues of $50. Respond in writing to 50 ethical questions posed by the NCCA’s National Licensing Board of Examiners. Complete a practicum. This consists of administering the Arno Profile System (APS) to 35 persons in your community under the direction of an approved clinical supervisor. Submit two copies of written dissertation. This normally consists of 35 individual reports (case studies) developed from the candidate’s work with 35 persons using the APS reports. These requirements are typical for candidates working toward a Clinical Pastoral Counseling PhD.

Note: Becoming licensed by the NCCA is an option. It is not a requirement for graduating from CTS. Students in the PhD track for Clinical Pastoral Counseling may opt for licensure depending on their career goals.

Degree Courses

CC 601 Basic Christian Counseling

This course will cover, on DVD, an overview of the “Big Eight” (types of secular counseling and therapeutic methods). In addition, the student will be taught the difference between Christian and secular counseling, goals, techniques, and several other important topics, such as the dangers and pitfalls of counseling. For students completing a Clinical Pastoral Counseling PhD, this foundational course provides essential context.

CC 602 Temperament Theory

The candidate will be provided with an in-depth background of the theory of temperament and provided with the scientific and biblical basis for this theory. This course introduces a fifth temperament and the behavioral patterns of each temperament. Clinical Pastoral Counseling PhD students build theoretical knowledge from such courses.

CC 603 Testing/Measurements

This course will introduce the student to the primary tests used by the NCCA. Samples of “Jane Doe” reports will be provided for the student’s review and each student is provided with a “start-up” packet of testing materials. Knowledge in testing and measurement is vital for those seeking the PhD in Clinical Pastoral Counseling.

CC 604 Temperament Therapy

The candidate will be taught how to apply the theory of temperament in a clinical setting. An APS start up packet is included with this course. The student is authorized to begin administering the APS at this point. Clinical application is a major focus in the Clinical Pastoral Counseling PhD program.

CC 605 Christian Psychology and Counseling

The candidate will be provided with general information regarding basic theories concerning historical systems of psychology, counseling, biblical theories of counseling and the utilization of NCCA’s counseling model, Temperament Theory. Those pursuing Clinical Pastoral Counseling as a PhD will explore psychology, history, and counseling systems deeply.

CC 606 Mastering Pastoral Counseling

The candidate will be provided with specific information regarding stress, anger and guilt with the emphasis on the need to develop family relationships. This course utilizes the NCCA’s counseling model, Temperament Therapy. For those participating in the Clinical Pastoral Counseling PhD, mastering pastoral techniques and relationships is key.

CC 607 Temperament Case Studies

The candidate will learn firsthand the counseling model with which the NCCA members and graduates counsel. These case studies utilize the counseling method taught by NCCA and they also incorporate other testing instruments with this model. Case studies are a critical part of Clinical Pastoral Counseling PhD courses.

CC 608 Counseling the Codependent

The candidate will be provided with specialized training regarding codependency which incorporates the counseling model taught by the NCCA. One final note: Specialized training in Clinical Pastoral Counseling is part of earning a PhD in this field.