CCC 27-4_LR 1

LEAD ARTICLES

Like the PMHC program, the SARC certification includes training on the scope of practice and bound aries. Coaches are taught to recognize when a client needs clinical treat ment and how to refer appropriately, ensuring that their support is both helpful and responsible. This course is ideal for those leading recovery groups, offering one-on-one coaching, or supporting men’s and women’s ministries within a church. Learn more or enroll today at www.lightuniversity.com/sexual-ad diction-recovery-coaching. Flexible Format and Scholarship Opportunities Both certification programs are self paced and entirely online. Students can begin any time and move through the material as their schedules allow. This flexibility makes these programs ideal for working professionals, pas tors, and ministry volunteers. Scholarships are available to help make both programs more accessi ble. Light University is committed to providing solid, biblically grounded training for those who feel called to care for others. Each certification is built on the trusted foundation of the AACC and Light University, with experienced instructors and a strong emphasis on spiritual integrity and practical skill. Equipping the Church to Respond These two new certifications reflect a larger movement toward more inten tional, structured care within the Church. As more people seek support for their mental, emotional, and spir itual health, the need for well-trained Christian coaches will only increase. Professional Mental Health Coaches and Sexual Addiction Recovery Coaches are uniquely posi tioned to offer hope, truth, and prac tical help to those who are hurting. These two programs provide a strong foundation for doing this work with excellence. Let us commit to build ing a care-ready church, one trained coach at a time. ;

g Professional Mental Health Coaches are trained to recognize the limits of their roles and work alongside licensed mental health providers when neces sary. They help clients set goals, learn coping skills, and stay grounded in bib lical truth. In many cases, they offer early support that helps prevent deeper crises from developing. The certification includes two core courses, PMHC 101 and 201, totaling more than 24 hours of instruction. The faculty consists of leaders from the American Association of Christian Counselors, such as Drs. Tim Clinton, Zach Clinton, Shannae Anderson, and more. Their teaching blends biblical wisdom with current research and practical tools for use in a wide range of ministry or coaching settings. Graduates earn 24 CE credits and are eligible for certification through the International Board of Christian Care (IBCC). The program also covers ethics, legal considerations, and professional boundaries, which are essential for coaches who want to serve with integrity and effectiveness in real-world min istry contexts. This certification is well-suited for those working in churches, nonprofit ministries, coaching practices, or even corporate wellness settings. It offers a clear, responsible framework for helping people navigate emotional pain while staying within the coach’s proper scope of care. Learn more or enroll today at www.lightuniversity.com/professional-men tal-health-coaching. Sexual Addiction Recovery Coaching (SARC) The Sexual Addiction Recovery Coaching certification prepares students to support individuals working through struggles with pornography, compulsive sexual behavior, and related challenges. It also equips coaches to come along side spouses and families affected by the fallout of sexual addiction. Rooted in biblical truth and evidence-based practice, the training offers a clear and compassionate approach to guiding others toward healing, restoration, and recovery. With more than 24 hours of video-based training and 24 CE credits, this program brings together leading voices in the field. Instructors include Jason VanRuler, Jim Cress, Debbie Laaser, Mike Vaughn, Crystal Renaud Day, and other experts with years of experience in recovery work, pastoral care, and counseling. Topics include the addiction cycle, shame and identity, triggers and relapse prevention, discipleship in recovery, and how to create momentum for change. Students also learn to build coaching relationships based on trust, accountability, and Christ-centered encouragement.

6 Christian Counseling Connection