What is the purpose of the BCN?

The BCN is a network and directory of churches and counselors committed to a sound view of biblical counseling. The intent of this network (in part) is to (1) offer the public a powerful option when searching for counseling help, (2) provide churches in varying geographic locations with a reliable referral source, and (3) connect professionals and churches in similar geographic locations in order to cultivate a community model of soul care bridging the disconnect that has often existed in these two realms of ministry.

Is the application for me individually or for my church?

If you are a non-professional who is completing an application for the Biblical Counseling Network (BCN), you are doing so as an ambassador of your church. The application is designed for the individual who, with the support of elders and/or the pastoral staff, is (a) certified in biblical counseling, (b) holds advanced training in biblical counseling, or (c) who is open to pursuing certification in biblical counseling and (d) is also passionate about developing a biblical counseling and discipleship ministry in his/her church. Should you receive approval via the application process, your church will be listed on the BCN site and you will be listed as the contact person for your church. 

Why do you emphasize church listings over individual listings?

The Association of Biblical Counselors is committed to pointing those who are hurting to a community context. We believe the Church is the community God designed to serve as the most effective instrument of ministry for believers. While we seek to partner with individuals doing the actual ministry, we want to point the watching world to the local church as God’s haven for those in need. All churches will have individuals listed as contacts for each particular local congregation upon approval.

Is ABC the overseeing body of the local church-counseling ministry?

The Association of Biblical Counselors will not serve as the overseer of the various local church counseling ministries within the network. We believe God has appointed elders and church leadership to govern its affairs according to Scripture. ABC will, however, require an application process for individuals interested in joining the BCN. This application process will require oversight and approval by church leadership.

Is the BCN a marketing tool for churches and counselors?

No, the BCN is not designed with a marketing agenda. It is not a place to sign up simply to have your church or counseling center listed in the network. Instead, it is a platform for evangelism and discipleship. ABC takes the work of the Church very seriously, and has designed this network to include churches and ministries dedicated to effective, Gospel-centered, one-on-one soul care.

Is a fee required in order for churches or counselors to be listed on the BCN?

There are three potential financial requirements to be listed on the BCN. (1) An initial $25 application fee. (2) ABC membership by at least one person overseeing the counseling ministry of the church ($99/yr). (3) Any expenses that would be tied to certification whether through ABC or another approved certifying/training ministry. All fees for listing go to support the continued work of biblical counseling within the community and the local church.

Is membership to ABC a requirement to be listed on the BCN?

ABC requires that a minimum of one person who is leading the counseling ministry in the church register as a member of ABC. If the Association of Biblical Counselors is recommending you and your church as a quality place to receive ministry, we want to make sure to stay connected with the individuals who are leading such ministry.

What does membership to ABC offer?

Membership to the Association of Biblical Counselors offers many benefits that may be found here.

Is certification through the Association of Biblical Counselors required for those listed in the BCN?

No. ABC will also recognize certification and training from other approved ministries and churches. ABC is also honored to assist any pastor or believer in acquiring certification and/or training through our ministry. A certification or advanced training is required to be listed.

How may I pursue certification through the Association of Biblical Counselors?

You may find out more about ABC certification by clicking here.

What is your stance on professional counseling?

ABC looks favorably on professional counseling so long as the professional (a) seeks to offer sound biblical counseling within his/her practice, (b) seeks to work in conjunction with local churches to foster a Gospel-centered, community mindset as it regards the process of change and sanctification. This stands in contrast to an exclusive one-on-one approach. Certainly, there are times for such one-on-one care as is found in a professional setting, but this should, by and large, not be the extent of ministry being offered. Therefore, the Church should feel welcomed in the process of biblical change along with the counsel being offered in sessions by the licensed professional.

If I am a professional, will I be listed as an individual or through my church?

If you are a professional counselor who practices biblical counseling (listing for professionals also requires a biblical counseling certification), you and your counseling ministry will be listed in the BCN separately from your church.