IBCD Counseling Observation exists to better equip believers in the area of biblical counseling.   For those pursuing NANC certification, it can be used to fulfill the required 10 hour observation of a NANC certified counselor.  If it is not feasible for you to personally observe a counselor, another alternative is to use the observation videos that are available for purchase from NANC.

Weekly Commitments:

New Cases: Once you have satisfactorily completed this application, you will be notified when a new case becomes available for you to observe from beginning to end.  Cases typically last 8-12 weeks; however, some counselees only come for one or two sessions.  If your case ends early, you will be given another case.  You will be expected to sit quietly, unless called upon by the counselor to make a contribution (ie, open or close in prayer). You should take notes (using the observation form) recording the flow of the session, homework assigned and any questions or suggestions you may have for the counselor. Also, you will be expected to pray for the counselee (s) throughout the week.  If you are seeking NANC Certification, it is important to be recording your hours on the Observation Log which can be obtained from www.NANC.org.

Weekly Calls: The IBCD office is very busy on Mondays with the scheduling and facilitating of appointments.  Observation is primarily your responsibility.  Once you are assigned a case, you are to call the IBCD Office every Monday morning between 10-11 am to find out if your case is meeting that day.  If, for some reason, you will not be able to observe that day you must let the IBCD Office know so that the counselor can be notified.

Attire & Punctuality:  We seek to maintain a professional atmosphere at IBCD, so please dress appropriately when you come on Mondays.  Proper dress is business casual; no jeans, flip-flops, T-shirts or tank tops. Be sure to arrive five or ten minutes before the case is scheduled to start.  The counselors do not usually allow students to walk into a session after it has started.

Continuation:  If your case finishes and you would like to be assigned to another, you must let the IBCD Office staff know.  Students who have not completed their 10 hours will be given priority.  

2. Weekly Observation Seminar

Time & Location: The class meets on Mondays at Grace Bible Church, 655 W. 11th Ave., Escondido from 4-5pm.

Attendance: You are expected to be at this meeting every week that your case is meeting. If your case is not meeting during particular week, it is still recommended that you come to gain insight from hearing about the other cases.  

Recommended Resources:

During your preparation for counseling it is strongly recommended that you become familiar with the following resources that are often referred to counselees:

Adams, J.  From Forgiven to Forgiving

Adams, J. What Do You Do? (pamphlet series)

Blanchard, J. Right With GodKinneer, J.  How to Grow in Christ

Mack, W.  A Homework Manual for Biblical Living #1 & #2

Miller, J. Repentance and the 21st Century Man

Costs:

Standard Cost:                                     $  220.00

Supporting Church Member or

Individual Supporter:                             $ 110.00

Seminary Students:                               $   55.00

How Do I Apply? 

If you do live near Escondido or La Mesa (see location) and are interested in pursuing your counseling observation hours through IBCD, please call our office at (760) 747-9252 and we will email you an application.