The N.C.C.A. Phase I Curriculum which consists of four (4) core courses, Academic Supervision, and a Supervised Practicum is required for all students enrolled in the N.C.C.A. License and Degrees Program.  While the traditional N.C.C.A. Phase I coursework consists of five (5) courses, the SCMi Institute requires the following four courses in complete fulfillment of the N.C.C.A. Phase I coursework: (1) Basic Christian, (2) Creation Therapy, (3) Christian Counseling: Integrating Temperament and Psychology, and (4) Quality, Ethics, and Legal Issues in Christian Counseling.   You may choose to take these courses online or offline by having the texts shipped to you. The online training program is recommended (especially for our international students). Exams are to be taken online.  Upon successful completion of the Phase I coursework and practicum, you will become a Certified Temperament Counselor (CTC) and N.C.C.A. Clinical Member.  

PHASE I COURSES:

Basic Christian Counseling

This course will cover, on video, four hours of instruction. The instructor (Dr. Richard Arno) will provide the student with an overview of the “Big Eight” (types of secular counseling/therapeutic methods).  In addition, the student will be taught the difference between Christian and secular counseling, goals, techniques, and several other important topics, such as the dangers and pitfalls of counseling. Due to the brevity of this foundational course, we suggest ordering it along with Creation Therapy (see below).  Coursework requirements:

• Approximately 10 clock hours (video and textbook)
• Time to complete: 4 weeks (approx one month)
• One final Online Exam

Creation Therapy 

Creation Therapy is a foundational course that teaches temperament theory, temperament therapy, and temperament testing. You will learn how to identify the “hidden” problems and how to counsel those who turn to you for help. You will learn a session-by-session plan based upon the research-proven counseling model developed by Drs. Richard and Phyllis Arno, founders of the National Christian Counselors Association (N.C.C.A.) and Sarasota Academy of Christian Counselors (S.A.C.C.).  You are also required to complete a Creation Therapy Practicum, with three (3) hours of supervision, in fulfillment of the N.C.C.A. Phase I practicum requirement.  During the Creation Therapy Practicum, the student will gain experience in administering the Arno Profile System (APS) to 10 participants in their community.  Upon successfully completing the coursework, joining the S.A.C.C., and completing the Creation Therapy Practicum; you will be authorized to administer the APS temperament analysis profile. Coursework requirements:

• Approximately 45 clock hours (textbook, video, workbook)
• Time to complete w/ practicum: 24 weeks (approx 6 months or less)
• Two Exams: Online (for online and offline students)

Christian Counseling: Integrating Temperament and Psychology

The purpose of the course is to introduce the student to the definition, theory and practice of biblically based Christian psychology and counseling and how this relates to Temperament Theory.  Course Requirements:

• Approximately 35 clock hours (textbook approx 133 pages)
• Time to complete: 15 weeks (approx 4 months)
• One final exam: Online (for online and offline students)

Quality, Ethics, and Legal Issues in Christian Counseling + Lab

The purpose of this course, authored by Dr. Mildred Burckley, is to provide the student with information regarding ethical issues in counseling. It will also provide you with a clear understanding of the importance of confidentiality. In addition, this course will provide information regarding referrals, helpful agencies, and programs. Forms and record-keeping is discussed. This course consists of a textbook of approximately 133 pages in length and requires one exam.  Course Requirements:

• Approximately 35 hours (textbook approx 133 pages)
• Time to complete: 12 weeks (approx 3 months)
• One final exam: Online (proctored offline)

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Tuition and Fees

The cost of the program is very affordable.  The tuition for each Phase I course is just $299.  Additional fees are required.  We invite you to request a program catalog and prospectus to review our full description of the tuition and fees for each program.  Tuition and fees for each phase are typically paid in full, but students may elect a pay as you go option.   Group discounts are also available.  Payment plans, for qualifying candidates, may be available via Paypal Credit.  Contact us for more information.