Certification is a voluntary process that individuals seek to gain credibility and increased knowledge and skills. Most people want to know if they will be accredited, what they will call themselves, and how they can use their certification professionally and elsewhere. 
 

Since Christian counseling is a religious practice, it is an unregulated profession. This means that there is no main governing body that certifies and licenses all Christian counselors. For example, if you want to advertise and work as an electrician, you would need to be licensed as an electrician. This is not the case for Christian counseling. 
 

While the above is true, it is unethical to practice Christian counseling without the proper training and skill. Failure to gain the appropriate skill will result in harm to the client. Obtaining a Christian counseling certification may help you obtain business insurance, prestige, and credibility. 
 

Most states provide an exemption from state licensure if you (1) are a religious/spiritual counselor (2) recognized by an organized entity, and (3) are NOT using or claiming specific titles like “Mental Health Counselor” or “Psychotherapist.”
 

It will be your responsibility to know what the allowed titles for individuals who practice counseling in your state are. Some states have restrictions on the type of titles that can be used by non-state licensed mental health providers. However, most states do allow the use of “Christian,” “Pastoral,” or “Religious” counselors. It is your responsibility to be in compliance with your state’s laws.