5 Types of Christian Counselors
There are many different types of Christian counselors. Gary Collins wrote the first article on the different types. When he first wrote his article he identified five basic categories which are still, for the most part recognized today.
Main Stream Counselors: These counselors are trained first as pastors and second as counselors. They first go through a training known as CPE or Clinical Pastoral Education training. Then they go through a secular counseling program. Their religious background allows them to integrate both religion and psychology into their treatment
Main Stream Counselors are thought by many to be too liberal. Conservative evangelical theologians are in their opinion too strict and cause many people to stay away from Christian counseling for fear of being judged or condemned. Main Stream Counselors try to make people feel like they are imperfect beings and that trying to live for the Lord is what really counts. They are less abrasive, more supportive and less confrontational than conservative evangelical theologians.
Evangelical Pastoral Counselors: Counselors that fall in to this category are generally very confrontational and blunt, straight to the point. They believe that the bible is the foundation of counseling and is the only thing that should set boundaries and guidelines. They believe that education is vital. If you are educated and know your scriptures then you will be very successful in your recovery.
Christian Professionals: These counselors recieive the majority, if not all, of their education through secular schools. They make the decision to practice in Christian counseling because that is where there heart is. Some of the most famous christian counselors practice in this category including Clyde Narramore the father of Christian counseling, and Dr. James Dobson founder of focus on the family.
Theoretician Researchers: This group is comprised primarily of university professors. They take a scholarly, scientific approach. As the name implies they work extensively on researching, developing and testing new theories and techniques. These counselors do not necessarily work in the field unless their research requires them to do so. Their education is almost always secular, unless they are university professors at a private religious university.
Evangelical Popularizers: You will most likely see these Christian counselors name pop up on self help books, seminar lessons, action plans for troubled youth and so on. They primarily focus on helping individuals help themselves.
In 1975 the five categories of counselors were identified. To this day all five are still widely acknowledged and used. There have been some finite changes and adjustments within each category. For example evangelical counselors no longer want to receive a clinical pastoral education they are opting instead for a secular education.
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