About Us
The purpose of The American Society of Christian Therapists (A.S.C.T.) is to provide a high quality Board of Review for Christian Therapists. This society is able to provide recognition and certification to qualified Christian therapists equivalent to many secular agencies. The Board of Directors of A.S.C.T. is made up of highly trained, licensed Ph.D.s (or equivalent) who are active in their professional practice.
A.S.C.T. was founded in 1993 by Dr. L.D. Jarrard, Ph.D., and originally chartered in Belmont, North Carolina. Dr. Jarrard's 28 years of ministry experience provided a fresh, balanced view in the arena of theological insights. A graduate of Vision Christian College (BA Theological Studies) and Vision International University (MA Pastoral Counseling, D.Min. Theology), Dr. Jarrard received his (Ph.D.) from the University of Christian Studies & Seminary in Eagle River, Alaska. He served on the Board of Advisors for Vision International University in Ramona, California, and Faith Bible College in Independence, Missouri. As an ordained Minister, Professional Counselor and Educator, Dr. Jarrard has established ministries and counseling programs throughout the United States via his personal teaching ministry.
The founders of A.S.C.T. understood there was the need to create a totally Christian organization of professional therapists. This association of Christian emotional and physical health care providers was needed due to the vast difference in the overall philosophy of Christian versus secular therapy. We dogmatically affirm our total dependence upon Christ for all our healing. A.S.C.T. without apology, acknowledges that within ourselves there is no power to effect worthwhile changes in human behavior or health.
The founders of A.S.C.T. understood there was the need to create a totally Christian organization of professional therapists. This association of Christian emotional and physical health care providers was needed due to the vast difference in the overall philosophy of Christian versus secular therapy. We dogmatically affirm our total dependence upon Christ for all our healing. A.S.C.T. without apology, acknowledges that within ourselves there is no power to effect worthwhile changes in human behavior or health.