Certificate in Biblical Counseling
Jack D. Terry School of Educational Ministries
Certificate in Biblical Counseling
Minister the Word of God both formally and informally
This certificate program provides an introduction to biblical counseling for both pastors and church members.
Certificate Highlights
- Available online
- 2 semesters
- Begin classes in either the fall or spring semester
- Satisfies Phase 1 of the ACBC Fundamental requirements
The certificate in biblical counseling at Southwestern Seminary furthers the mission of the Terry School of Educational Ministries to equip Great Commission ministers to biblically counsel with excellence. The certificate program provides an introduction to biblical counseling for both pastors and church members. Participants will learn biblical and theological bases for counseling with an emphasis on practical skills for a variety of ministry contexts. Our aim is to glorify God by helping people to change through the Gospel, thereby strengthening the church.
The certificate in biblical counseling is offered over two semesters at the adult education level. Students will complete 3 weekends for Phase 1 training and an additional 3 weekends for Phase 2 training, totaling 6 weekends over 2 semesters. Each training weekend will be scheduled on a Saturday from 8:30a.m. to 5p.m. CT. unless stated otherwise. Dr. Jonathan Okinaga serves as the director of the certificate in biblical counseling program.
Students may begin Phase 1 in either the fall or spring semester and take Phase 2 in the following semester.
Students may complete the certificate in biblical counseling in seat in Fort Worth or online.
Meet Your Faculty
"As a biblical counselor, if we’re not opening our sessions with God’s Word and we’re not praying, then we’re not doing biblical counseling."
Jonathan K. Okinaga
Assistant Professor of Biblical Counseling
“One of the highlights of being a professor is seeing the lights turn on among students and being a part of their Christian formation through classes and conversations.”
Lilly Park
Associate Professor of Biblical Counseling
"Biblical Counseling is a great commission ministry that allows us to apply the Word of God through soul care to the hearts and homes of the families in our ministries."
Jonathan Williams
Adjunct Professor
Certificate Training Dates
On-campus certificate training dates are listed below.
Fall 2025
The course will meet in person or online on the following three weekends:
- August 23
- September 20
- October 25
Training is held from 8:30a.m. to 5:00p.m. each Saturday.
Spring 2026
The course will meet in person or online on the following three weekends:
- January 24
- February 28
- March 28
Training is held from 8:30a.m. to 5:00p.m. each Saturday.
Certificate Cost, Application Process, and Student Benefits
Cost
- Per semester: $335
- Full program: $670
- Grad fee: $50
Tuition for the Certificate in Biblical Counseling costs $335 per semester or $670 to complete the full program in the 2025-2026 academic year. Additional costs include the background check fee for new incoming students; two $20 books, one per semester; and a $50 graduation fee. A waiver for the general application fee is available through the Office of Admissions by calling 817-921-8500 or by emailing Dr. Jon Okinaga at [email protected].
Listed tuition costs are calculated based on in-person enrollment for SBC students. For information regarding online and/or non-SBC tuition pricing, please contact Student Financial Services.
Application Process
Those interested in the certificate in biblical counseling may begin the application process here. Applicants may need to select the “Adult Education” application and supply the requested information.
Application requirements include a background check and a church endorsement. Please note that the background check may take approximately two weeks to complete.
The entire application must be completed before the start date of the prospective student’s first semester.
For specific inquiries regarding the application process or to request an application fee waiver, please contact the Office of Admissions at 817-921-8500 or [email protected].
Student Benefits
Students at Southwestern Seminary receive several free resources and discounts, including a student email address, free access to the Microsoft Office suite, free and discounted resources for Logos or Accordance Bible software, and more. Visit Tools and Resources – SWBTS for further information.
Frequently Asked Questions
The biblical counseling certificate serves as a formal academic credential in the area of biblical counseling and prepares students for additional training in biblical counseling. Participants in the biblical counseling certificate program serve in a variety of contexts, including the local church, parachurch ministries, and non-profit organizations. Whether someone serves formally or informally, such as pastors, Bible teachers or small group leaders, the biblical counseling certificate provides basic knowledge and skills to strengthen ministry skills in helping people with various struggles.
Got Questions?
We’re here to answer them. Reach out to our Admissions Team and we’ll be in touch by phone, text, or email.