GSM Lay Counselor Program
In the parable of the Good Samaritan from the scriptures (Luke 10), a man in desperate circumstances is found, given comfort and care, and carried to a healing space. At the end of the story, Jesus admonishes His followers to “go and do likewise”. Our counselor training program is built on this command to heal those who are broken hearted. Good Samaritan Ministries offers a certificate in Lay Christian Counseling. The course is an intensive three-level training program that develops counselors to meet with clients in the Good Samaritan offices. The Counselor Training Program offers a combined in-person and virtual classroom experience. Our training uses experiential teaching that involves role play and the practice of listening and questioning skills in a safe and confidential setting.
What is a lay counselor?
Lay counseling refers to volunteers providing guidance, support, and a safe space for people to discuss their feelings, concerns, and life challenges without holding formal mental health degrees or licenses. Our counselors acquire skills through Good Samaritan Ministries’ three-level intensive training program and mentorship rather than traditional academic pathways.
Fieldworker Training
This foundational 12-week class explores topics like hearing the voice of God in the counseling office, studying Christ as the counselor in scriptures, inner healing and forgiveness, how to build an in-depth Case History, and more! This is considered the first level of training to become a lay counselor.
Level I class is held virtually via zoom on Tuesday evenings from 6:00-8:00pm from September 15th, through December 8th, 2026. Upon completing the Level I course, students may begin to attend the Counselor Training on Mondays from 6:00-8:00pm either in-person or online).
Fieldworker Training is a great training for people in ministry or leadership roles and can be used as a stand-alone class for those wishing to develop themselves for the work of ministry! All are welcome.
Your Giving Changes Lives
Good Samaritan Ministries is a ministry of faith wholly
supported through donations provided by:
-
Engaged people who believe in helping their fellow man reach their full potential
-
Compassionate people who reach out to touch the forgotten, the widows, orphans, and the poor.
-
Active churches that involve themselves in expanding God’s love, compassion, and sharing good news.
-
Kingdom businesses that are aligning with Kingdom principles and support Samaritans worldwide.
-
Friends who have experienced the profound, non-judgmental, shocking love of God through our programs.
GSM offers training and services in more than 20 locations throughout the Northwest and in 26 countries worldwide. Our counseling, training, therapy aid, and teaching services remain supported by volunteers and donations. When you give to GSM, you can be sure that 100% of your donation goes towards supporting the life-saving projects and work we do locally and internationally.