Our beliefs are rooted in the authority of God’s Word and the redemptive power of Jesus Christ. These convictions shape our counseling approach, guide our ethical standards, and inspire our global mission.
At the Global Association of Certified Pastoral Counselors, we believe Christian counseling must be grounded in Scripture, centered on Christ, guided by the Holy Spirit, and expressed through compassion, truth, integrity, and respect for every person created in the image of God.
These beliefs form the spiritual foundation for pastoral counseling, chaplaincy, certification, and ethical care.
We believe the Bible is the inspired, infallible, and authoritative Word of God. It provides the foundation for truth, healing, wisdom, and guidance in every area of life.
We believe true healing, peace, and restoration are found in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the Wonderful Counselor and ultimate example of compassion and truth.
We believe the Holy Spirit empowers, comforts, convicts, and guides both the counselor and the counselee in truth, wisdom, grace, and hope.
We believe every human being is created in the image of God and is worthy of dignity, compassion, respect, care, and responsible pastoral support.
We are committed to counseling practices that are ethical, professional, confidential, accountable, and guided by Christian integrity.
We believe Christian counseling supports the Church’s mission to make disciples, heal the brokenhearted, comfort the grieving, and care for the whole person.
Faith is not separate from care. Our beliefs shape how certified pastoral counselors serve with wisdom, humility, and accountability.
GAOCPC certification is built upon biblical conviction, ethical responsibility, professional competence, and Christ-centered pastoral service.
Statement of Faith Code of Ethics