Doctor of Theology in Christian Counseling Program Description

Doctor of Theology in Christian Counseling (Th.D.) – Online Program Description

The Doctor of Theology in Christian Counseling (Th.D.) is a 40–semester–hour advanced doctoral program designed to equip pastors and Christian leaders with a strong biblical and theological foundation in counseling. This program prepares individuals to serve parishioners with wisdom, discernment, and compassion by integrating sound theology,  biblical counseling principles, and practical ministry application. It is ideal for those called to shepherd, teach, counsel, and lead within church and faith-based ministry settings.

Each student will be assigned a mentor to help them throughout the program.

Arno Profile System (APS) Reports are $30 each; 15 are required. They are tests that  provide a personal temperament client inventory

Dissertation Required, 6 Credits

Pre-requisite: A Master's degree (Any discipline)

Application Fee:   $125 - One-time charge

Tuition:  $399 per 3 credit hours

Graduation Fees: $125

Dissertation: $425 (compilation of 15 APS case studies) 

VR 1T Temperament Theory

 NCCA Temperament Theory is a foundational course in Christian counseling that teaches the God-given design of human personality and behavior. Rooted in biblical principles, the course explains how individuals are created with distinct temperament needs in the areas of Inclusion, Control, and Affection. Students learn how these inborn needs influence emotions, relationships, communication, and decision-making.

Through this course, counselors gain insight into how unmet temperament needs can lead to emotional struggles and relational conflict, and how meeting those needs in a Christ-centered way brings healing and growth. Temperament Theory provides the biblical and practical framework for effective Christian counseling and serves as the foundation for temperament-based therapy and the Arno Profile System (APS).

VR 2T Testing/Measurements

Testing and Measurements is a core course in Christian counseling that equips students to accurately assess personality, temperament, and emotional needs using approved counseling instruments. The course focuses on the proper administration, scoring, and interpretation of assessment tools—particularly the Arno Profile System (APS)—within a biblical and ethical framework. Students learn how to use testing results to identify underlying needs, understand behavior patterns, and develop effective, Christ-centered counseling strategies while maintaining professionalism, accuracy, and ethical responsibility. 

VR 3T Temperament Therapy

Temperament Therapy is a practical Christian counseling course that builds upon Temperament Theory and focuses on applying biblical principles to meet an individual’s God-given temperament needs. Students learn how unmet needs in Inclusion, Control, and Affection affect emotions, behavior, and relationships, and how to guide counselees toward healing and balance.

The course equips counselors with step-by-step strategies to use temperament insights in real counseling situations, helping individuals, couples, and families experience restoration, improved relationships, and spiritual growth through Christ-centered therapy.

CC 607 Temperament Case Studies

The candidate will learn firsthand the counseling model used by NCCA members and graduates. These case studies use the counseling method taught by NCCA and incorporate other testing instruments with this model.

GBTH 692 Christ Our Healer

This course deals with the healing ministry of Jesus. It explains God’s will for healing today, even as it was His will in ancient times. The subject of faith is also addressed in this commentary. The relation of sickness to sin is discussed in great detail.

GBTH 620 The Holy Spirit

This course in pneumatology defines the works and teachings of the Holy Spirit in relationship to the Messianic Kingdom of God. The course defines the Trinity, the personality of the Holy Spirit, the Holy Spirit‘s works in the Old Testament, Baptism in the Holy Spirit, and the Nine Spiritual Gifts.

GBTH 640 Covenants

This course discusses all the Old Testament Covenants, how they culminate in the Messianic Covenant, and how they offer us valuable insights for today’s society. The true biblical definition of the word “covenant” is discussed, along with its relevance to our modern world. It also compares the word covenant from both the Old and New Testament perspectives.

GCCS 650 Christian Counseling I

This course provides an overview of many problems Believers face and explains how the counselor can help. It briefly discusses the differences in Christian Counseling. The course is divided into four sections: The Counselor, Personal Issues, Interpersonal Issues, and Family Issues.

GCCS 660 Christian Counseling II

This course provides an overview of many problems Believers face and how a counselor can help. It briefly discusses the differences in Christian Counseling. The course is divided into four sections: The Counselor, Personal Issues, Interpersonal Issues, and Family Issues.

GBPA 650 Integrity

This course targets the need for integrity as a Believer. It described the qualities of God that should be found in anyone called to the ministry. Topics included in the course are: Conviction, Falsehoods, Accountability, Integrity of Heart, Character and Family, and Becoming a Person of Discernment.

GCCS 629 Counseling, Psychology, and the Christian

This course reveals that a Believer’s warfare is in the mind. It discusses Man’s triune being and Demonic Activity. It presents seven detailed behavioral patterns as seen from an Old Testament perspective. Other sections in the course include: Shaping our Destiny, Spiritual Management, and Managing the Mind.

GCCS 630 Marriage Counseling

This course begins with premarital counseling and continues through problems in marriage, examining Biblical marriage models. It will give tips on choosing the right mate, the effects of premarital counseling, Marriage problems, and working through marital conflicts.

GBNT 645 Epistles of John

This course gives a detailed look at books written by John the Beloved. It sheds light on all major points and provides commentary on each chapter. Each book begins with an outline and a short overall survey, and then proceeds to provide detailed spiritual and historical data.

Dissertation / Practicum  6 Credits