American Association of Pastoral Counselors

Religious Body Endorsement

Applicants for certified membership categories are required to have endorsement by a recognized religious body. This is a specialized process conducted by the religious endorsing body in which the applicant holds membership. The specific qualifications and procedures for endorsement vary with each religious body. The interpretation of the definition for minister is made by the applicant's religious body and may or may not include ordination.

A Verification of Faith/Religious Group Activity is available for lay persons and for those persons who are ordained or consecrated by their faith groups but who cannot receive ecclesiastical endorsement as pastoral counselors. More detailed information on this procedure may be found in the Certification Committee Operational Manual, or by contacting the Association Office.

NOTE: Religious Body endorsements may take a few months to obtain and in some cases require meeting with a committee. It is recommended that requests for endorsements be made well in advance of the due date for application to AAPC.

Applicants for general membership categories will be required to submit a letter from an appropriate official of their local religious community (church, synagogue, etc.) who knows of the applicant's active relationship to that religious community.