Process for a Member to Become Certified

Certification is a distinct process that requires additional steps beyond membership. Below is the detailed pathway to certification:

Step 1: Select the Desired Certification Level

• CACCP offers various certification levels based on experience, education, and calling, including:
• Apprentice Christian Care (ACC)
• Lay Christian Counselor (LCC)
• Pastoral Care Counselor (PCC)
• Certified Associate Christian Counselor (CACC)
• Certified Clinical Christian
• Counselor (CCCC)
• Certified Christian Marriage Counselor (C-CMC)
• Certified Christian Mental Health Counselor (C-MHC)

Review the requirements for your chosen certification level to ensure you qualify.

Step 2: Meet Educational and Experiential Requirements

• Depending on the certification level, candidates must meet specific academic and practical counseling requirements:
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• LCC: Diploma in biblical studies or theology and pastoral reference.
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• PCC: Bachelor’s degree in counseling, psychology, or theology, plus 50 hours of supervised counseling experience.
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• CACC: Master’s degree in Christian counseling, or a related field, plus 100 hours of supervised counseling experience.
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• CCCC: Master’s degree or Doctorate’s degree in Christian Counseling, five years of professional counseling experience, and completion of clinical training.
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• FCC: PhD or equivalent, 20 years of experience, and evidence of significant contributions to the field, including teaching and professional private practice as a Christian counselor for over 20 years.
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Step 3: Submit Certification Application

• Complete the certification application form available on the CACCP website. Include:
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  • Academic transcripts
  • Proof of supervised counseling hours
  • Letters of reference (pastoral and professional, as required)
  • Background check results
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• Pay the one-time application fee (varies by level):

Step 4: Attend Required Training and Workshops

• Participate in CACCP-approved courses and training programs relevant to your certification level. Many programs are included in the certification fee and cover topics like biblical counseling, ethics, trauma care, and integration of theology with counseling practices.

Step 5: Gain Supervised Counseling Experience

• Complete the required number of supervised counseling hours under a certified mentor. Maintain a detailed log of sessions to submit as part of your application.

Step 6: Pass Certification Examination

• Successfully complete CACCP’s certification exam, designed to assess your knowledge of Christian counseling principles, ethical standards, and practical skills.

Step 7: Sign the Code of Ethics and Statements of Faith

• Agree to abide by CACCP’s Code of Ethics and Statements of Faith, committing to uphold the highest standards in counseling practice.

Step 8: Receive Certification

• Upon meeting all requirements, you will receive your official CACCP certification and designation (e.g., Certified Pastoral Counselor). A certificate suitable for display will also be issued.

Step 9: Maintain Certification

• Pay the annual renewal fee (varies by level, ranging from $150–$325) and complete continuing education requirements to keep your certification active.