Counseling programs in ATS integrate psychology, theology, Christian spirituality, and Filipino/Asian cultural perspectives in training students for competent counseling in church, school, community, and other ministry settings. It makes use of classroom instruction, experiential learning, internship placement, mentoring and supervision by licensed faculty members. The program puts an emphasis on the development of deep Christian insight into human problems and sensitivity to culture and social context. The MA program qualifies students to take the licensure exam in Guidance and Counseling.
- The Department of Counseling embraces ATS’ emphasis on the development of deep Christian insight, spiritual gifting, and sensitivity to culture and social context. It fosters the formation of a theological understanding of the human condition and provides an educational environment for the integration of the human sciences and the Christian faith towards the alleviation of human suffering and the building of healthier individuals, families, churches, and communities. ATS counseling programs aim to train Christian workers to function as competent practitioners with a variety of pastoral counseling skills.
- The ATS Counseling Center is an integral part of the Counseling program. It serves as a laboratory for students as they develop and refine their counseling skills.
- The Counseling Department also boasts of an extensive collection of recently published books and other valuable references in the field of counseling.
- Graduate Diploma in Christian Counseling (G.Dip. PC)
- This program is designed for ministers (lay and ordained) who would like to improve their counseling competencies under the mentorship of counselors who are widely recognized and respected in the field. In addition to classroom studies, Graduate Diploma in Counseling students are required to complete 180 hours of internship.
- Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling (M.A. PC)
- The Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling program provides advanced studies in Counseling. With an option for either a thesis or a non-thesis track, students engage in a scholarly, yet reflective, graduate program which enhances their competencies in effectively responding to the need of individuals, churches, and communities for hope, healing, and growth. Students are required to complete 200 hours of internship.
- Master of Divinity in Counseling (M.Div. C)
- Graduates of this program are expected to take part in pastoral ministry. They would have developed deep Christian insight into human problems, with a sensitivity to culture and social context. They have capacity to integrate Christian faith, spirituality and counseling, with the purpose of alleviating human suffering and improving mental health of individuals, families, churches and communities. Graduates are competent and reflective practitioners, have skills in counseling and spiritual companioning and are able to effectively respond to needs in a variety of church ministries.
Certificate Program
GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN SPIRITUAL COMPANIONING
This course offers a holistic curriculum designed to equip students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and spiritual insights to effectively companion others on their spiritual journeys.
It comprises five courses that focus on both the inner spiritual journey and outer ministry of spiritual accompaniment, emphasizing listening and supporting others in their spiritual journey:
- Soul Care (Level 1)
- Spiritual Companioning (Level 2)
- Spiritual Direction: Partnering with God in Human Transformation (Level 3)
- Discernment: Listening to God in Life and Ministry
- Contemplation and Action: The Art of Christian Engagement
Other Course Details:
- There will be course supervision and mentoring.
- Courses are spread out over at least eighteen months.
- After completion of this course, graduates may choose to pursue further studies by transitioning to a Grad. Dip or MA in Pastoral Counseling.
For inquiries, contact the Admissions Office at admissions@mail.ats.ph or 89286717 / 89286709 local 134.
Counseling Program Course