The Challenge:

Many people in the world are caught in bondage of addictions such as alcoholism, chemical dependency, co-dependency, eating disorders, etc. because of abuse, shame, unresolved grief or other unresolved issues. God desires to set these people free, and we as Christians are challenged to help them break free from the self-destructive behaviors used to cover their pain. The healing will come as we bring those people to focus on the finished work of the Cross and Jesus.

The main skills taught in the ABCS are: understanding and leading support and process groups (Basic Psychotherapy Groups), Trauma resolution (how to deal with the roots), and addiction counseling skills. While learning these skills each student will also have the opportunity to work on their personal issues of recovery from childhood trauma, addictions, or other problems. Our focus is to train counselors who then may train others or work in a recovery type of mercy ministry. The school is not for individuals that primarily need therapy for personal issues.

Dates: 29.6.2025 - 13.12.2025

Course Number: CNH 321 & 322

Language: English

U of N credits: 12 + 12 (outreach)

Lecture Phase Fee: 2'990 Swiss Francs (incl. tuition, room and board) + 80.- for materials, books, etc.
(2nd world: 2'290.-)
(3rd world: 1'990.-)

Nation categories are set according to the UofN Nation category list

Outreach Phase Fee: Registration fee CFH 250.-; outreach fee approx 2500.- Swiss Francs plus airfare (depending on location)
Exact outreach dates are subject to change pending on outreach location.

Open weeks: If you would like to attend a week as a guest listener, please find details under ‘Calendar' or ‘contact us’

Prerequisites:

DTS and FCM (IBC) with field assignments

Or other clinical counseling experience

Credits:

Twenty-four (24) semester-equivalent credits will be earned upon successful completion of Addictive Behavior Counseling School (CHC 358) and field assignment (CHC 359). These credits may be applied to a U of N degree program or transferred to other colleges and universities.

The ABC is designed as a six-month training program in Two Phases:

Lecture phase:

Phase one involves lectures, review of and practice of counseling skills, modeling of process and support group techniques, learning to teach and conduct seminars, acquiring and assimilating information on addiction and other addictive behavioral patterns

Outreach phase:

Phase two involves a minimum of eight weeks practical experience. The emphases during this phase are: teaching about addictions; leading a process group; starting a support group; counseling individuals and families in addictions. Finally helping others apply Biblical truths to their lives for greater maturity and a richer walk with God.

Topics Include:                                            

• Family systems

• Group counseling

• Children of alcoholics

• Sexual addiction, homosexuality

• Incest and violence, trauma recovery

• Alcohol and drugs

• Ministry to drug addicts

• Co-dependency

• Overview of addictions, ie., alcohol, drugs, eating, sex, shopping, gambling, etc.