In the broader Christian world, specifically in America, there are sometimes two strands of care that are similar, but different:
Pastoral Counseling
Licensed Therapy
Pastoral Counselors or Lay Ministers:
People who have training or education (sometimes formal such as with accredited degrees or ordination, and sometimes more informal through experience or certificate programs) but who are not licensed by a state to practice psychotherapy.
Sometimes churches will house pastoral counselors or lay ministers. Sometimes pastors will receive training in counseling, in addition to ordination requirements, and offer this to their congregant members.
Their work is often grounded in Scripture, doctrine, and Church theology. Sometimes the approach is as a pastor, a teacher, or a prophet – where they are leading you in deepening your faith. They may offer counsel or advice. They may read Scripture and pray.
This is often more directive.
They may not keep confidence, have formal psychotherapy training, or have any accountability to a larger overseeing board. But they may. The space is more ambiguous and much less regulated than licensed therapists.
Licensed Therapists or Counselors:
People who have masters or doctoral degrees and licensure by a state to practice psychotherapy.
There are three areas unique to a licensed therapist:
They are overseen by state licensure boards
They must adhere to the codes of ethics by their field (such as social workers, professional counselors, psychologists, or marriage and family therapists), or they face revocation of their license
The sessions they provide are eligible for health insurance coverage
Their work is often grounded in psychotherapy techniques and scientific research. The approach is as one who comes alongside of you and seeks to support your natural abilities and strengths. They often do not offer advice or counsel, but seek to support the client in answering their own questions and finding their own insights.
This is often a less directive approach.
Understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision.
