Why should I choose a Christian counseling program with CACREP accreditation?

The answer: lots of reasons! 

You're looking for a counseling degree, but why does accreditation matter? A CACREP-accredited Christian counseling degree like JBU's M.S. in counseling (in-person format) combines faith-based principles with professional standards, enhancing career opportunities in both secular and Christian counseling environments. Pursuing a faith-based counseling degree from a CACREP-accredited program offers distinct advantages, especially if you're seeking to integrate faith with your counseling practice. CACREP accreditation ensures that your program meets rigorous educational standards, while the Christian focus emphasizes spiritual development alongside professional training. Here are several key reasons to choose this type of program:

Combining Faith and Clinical Excellence

Choosing a CACREP-accredited Christian counseling program allows you to blend your faith with professional counseling practice. These programs provide the same high-level, evidence-based curriculum found in other CACREP-accredited programs, while also integrated Christian theology and spiritual competencies. This means you’ll be trained in both the spiritual and psychological aspects of counseling, making you uniquely equipped to work with clients seeking faith-based counseling.

For example, you might explore topics like Christian counseling and spiritual integration in therapeutic settings, all while meeting the strict academic requirements set by CACREP.

Pathway to Licensure and Certifications

Graduating from a CACREP-accredited program is often a requirement for licensure in many states. 

As more states require a CACREP degree for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), graduates of JBU’s MS in Counseling program can be assured of having the quickest pathway to becoming a licensed professional. 

With the integration of Christian values and counseling skills, you’ll be prepared to serve diverse populations, including those seeking faith-centered counseling, while adhering to professional standards.

Improved Career Opportunities

Many employers, including the Veterans Association, Christian organizations, schools, or church-based counseling centers, highly value candidates who have earned degrees from CACREP-accredited Christian counseling programs. The accreditation signals to employers that you have received comprehensive training that meets the highest professional standards, while your Christian counseling focus shows that you are prepared to offer faith-based support.

Graduates from these programs are also well-positioned to pursue roles in private practice, where many clients seek out counselors who share their faith background.

Personal and Spiritual Growth

In addition to professional benefits, enrolling in a Christian counseling program allows you to deepen your own spiritual walk. These programs integrate 

Christian theology and spiritual formation throughout the learning process, providing a transformative experience for students. You’ll grow in both your faith and your ability to treat spiritual and religious clients across diverse clinical settings.

This holistic approach not only helps you in your personal journey but also equips you to guide clients through difficult life issues with compassion and insight rooted in Christian teachings.

Eligibility for Federal and Christian-Based Employment

Many federal agencies, such as the Veterans Administration (VA), require candidates to have degrees from CACREP-accredited programs. Additionally, Christian counseling organizations and ministries prefer counselors who have the specialized knowledge and training that these programs provide.

With a CACREP-accredited Christian counseling degree, you’ll be qualified for a wide range of opportunities in both secular and faith-based environments, allowing you to make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and communities.

Conclusion

Choosing a CACREP-accredited Christian counseling program gives you the best of both worlds: the highest standards of professional counseling education combined with spiritual development rooted in Christian principles. Whether you’re aiming for licensure, seeking to integrate faith into your practice, or looking for meaningful employment opportunities in Christian counseling, this type of degree can offer the ideal path forward. Learn more about JBU's M.S. in counseling program.