What is Pastoral Counseling?
Pastoral Counseling is still a hidden gem the the counseling community and there are distinctive differences between Certified Pastoral Counselors and Licensed Clinical Counselors. Proud to say that I am training for certification through the National Christian Counselors Association (NCCA)
Pastoral Counseling vs. Clinical Counseling
Pastoral Counselors
* Pastoral Counselors generally are not regulated nor required to be licensed by states because it is considered a religious occupation or calling.
* Pastoral Counselors help their clients to navigate through a spiritual lens and Christian perspective.
* Pastoral Counselors to receive training which properly prepare them to work with their clients. Steps are taken to ID and refer needs that fall outside our scope of practice
* Pastoral Counselors do not diagnose medical conditions.
* Both use assessments as an essential tool for counseling
* Pastoral Counselors utilize the Bible as a self-help book.
Clinical Counselors
* Clinical Counselors who are licensed as Mental Health professionals by their state are governed by the laws of their state.
* Counselors assist with navigating their clients through challenges.
* Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselors are qualified to handle more advanced and complex areas of mental health
* Clinical counselors are able to medically diagnose clients.
* Both use assessments as an essential tool for counseling.