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Counseling Skills Certificate

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College of Education Graduate Mental Health and Wellness
Degree Level
Graduate
College
Education
Format
Online
Credit Hours
18 hours
Average Time to Degree
1 year

Counseling Skills Certificate at Harding

This online 18-hour certificate is designed to equip preachers, youth ministers, family ministers, women’s ministers, church leaders, missionaries and other leaders with the tools necessary for working with and helping those dealing with addictions, marital issues, parenting difficulties and other mental health concerns within a church or ministry context. These hours can be applied toward the master’s program in clinical mental health counseling.

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More Information

Applicants who are church ministers, shepherds or serve in other leadership or ministry capacities are eligible for savings. The cost of the first class is $250 with a 50% discount for remaining counseling skills certificate classes.

Application Requirements

  • Complete the online application.
  • Request official transcripts* be sent directly from previous institutions to admissions@harding.edu. 
    *Note: Harding alumni and current students do not need to request Harding transcripts as they are on file.
  • Request one letter of recommendation.

Additional Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency nationally recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
  • Applicants will also be required to complete a virtual interview with the faculty prior to admission.

Applications should be submitted by the following dates:

Summer term: March 30

Fall term: July 1

Spring term: November 15

COUN 6020 Techniques in Counseling

COUN 6100 Group Counseling

COUN 6110 Multicultural Counseling

COUN 6120 Addictions Counseling 

COUN 6130 Human Sexuality and Counseling

COUN 6140 Family and Relationship

Total of 18 graduate hours

What can you do with a Counseling Skills Certificate?

Churches/ministry settings

A certificate in counseling skills equips individuals working in church and ministry settings with essential tools to address various mental health concerns. The program is designed to support church leaders in providing effective counseling within their communities, enhancing their ability to offer compassionate and informed guidance​

Higher education

In higher education, a certificate in counseling skills can significantly benefit professionals working with students. This training equips faculty, advisors and other university staff with the ability to support students facing personal and academic challenges. It enhances their capacity to provide initial counseling support, refer students to appropriate mental health resources and foster a supportive educational environment.

K-12 school settings

For those working in K-12 school settings, a certificate in counseling skills offers valuable training to support the mental and emotional well-being of students. The program's emphasis on practical skills ensures that educators are better equipped to create a supportive and nurturing environment for students, contributing to their overall academic and personal success​.

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Contact Information


Mental Health and Wellness
501-279-4500
mhw@harding.edu

Mailing address:
Harding University
Mental Health and Wellness
HU 12254
Searcy, AR 72149-5615