Type of training:- Online lectures and discussion groups
- Video lectures
- Presentations
- Handouts
Program is suitable for:This introductory program is designed for anyone in the church who wants to help others in the field of counseling. It is not a professional counseling course, but rather focuses on equipping participants with the skills and knowledge needed to serve others in the church and beyond.
Study mode:- Lectures online
- Individual studies
- Small groups
Study length:- 1 year / 126 academic hours
Language:- Latvian
- Russian
Distance learning:- Students participate online, however, they have to be present for the sessions as the training is also done through discussion groups during the live classes.
Aim of the Program
The aim of the program is to equip participants with the skills and knowledge, using biblical principles and best practices in counseling.
The Latvian Bible Centre offers a programme – “Introduction to Church Counselling” in cooperation with the Peace and Reconciliation Network.
Study Process
The academic schedule is structured to be manageable and inclusive for all students – single, married, with children, working, attending other schools or educational institutions, and those participating in church ministry. The program is delivered by various professional counselors.
According to the study schedule lectures happen online once a month on Saturday in the morning hours. You can view the academic schedule here.
Depending on the speaker, there could be some homework to enhance the teaching covered in class as well as sharpen their communication skills.
There are two tests, mid-term and final, to evaluate students’ progress.
All courses are recorded so that those who cannot join the course online can watch it later, and it’s a great option for watching the course again.
Courses
| Course | Duration of the course |
| Overview of Counseling Topics and Settings | 20 academic hours |
| Cultural contexts in counseling | 6 academic hours |
| Personal Problems. Interpersonal Conflicts. | 12 academic hours |
| Counselees and their Expectations | 6 academic hours |
| An overview of the topics and parameters of counseling. | 5.5 academic hours |
| The Key People in Counseling: Attitude and Communication | 5.5 academic hours |
| Mental health and illness – a model | 5.5 academic hours |
| Healing through prayer. Active listening. | 5.5 academic hours |
| Self-forgiveness | 6 academic hours |
| Sexual Purity & Pornography | 6 academic hours |
| Family Life and (Peacebuilding) Communication | 7 academic hours |
| Grief and support during the grieving | 17 academic hours |
| Ministry of Liberation | 6 academic hours |
| Fear before God. Singleness | 6 academic hours |
| Stress and burnout | 6 academic hours |
| Traumatic Experiences | 6 academic hours |
| Individual homework/tests | 36 academic hours |
Cost of Education
| On-site Students | Listeners | |
| Registration Fee | € 15.00 | Free |
| Cost per meeting | € 12.00 | € 10.00 |
| Program Handbooks | Free | - |
*Amounts shown are subject to change.
Completion of the Studies
Upon successful completion of the program, students receive a Certificate in “Introduction to Church Counseling” at a special graduation ceremony.
The Latvian Biblical Centre is an adult informal further-educational institution registered at the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Latvia. The program is recognized by the largest Christian denominations in Latvia but is not yet accredited by the State.
Admission Requirements
Admission is open to anyone who wants to learn more about God’s Word and His World and how to help others. Anyone can attend but the level of instruction and class assignments will be more appropriate for those who have completed secondary education (general education experience).
If you would like to attend a particular course without taking the whole study program, please fill out this form or write us an email. To ensure that you receive all the necessary information for the course in good time, please email us at least 3-4 working days before the start of the course. You can check the Academic Timetable here.
Application process
Applications are open by August 31st of every year.
Please fill out the form below by tapping “Apply now” and submit your application. Once received, we will contact you with the next steps.
If you have additional questions about a program that is not listed here, please read the FAQ section on the bottom of the page or fill out an Enquiry Form to receive more information.