Biblical Counseling Speakers

A biblical counseling speaker is someone who communicates principles of counseling rooted in scripture to audiences through talks, interviews, workshops, or podcasts. They're not just motivational speakers with a few Bible verses sprinkled in. They're trained-formally or informally-in both theology and counseling, and they use that knowledge to help people navigate emotional, relational, and spiritual challenges.

Unlike secular therapists or general Christian speakers, biblical counseling speakers focus on applying biblical truth to real-life problems. They might speak on topics like depression, forgiveness, trauma, addiction, or conflict resolution, always grounding their insights in scripture.

Some are licensed counselors who speak on the side. Others are pastors, authors, or ministry leaders who've developed a counseling focus through years of experience. You'll find them at conferences like the ACBC (Association of Certified Biblical Counselors), on podcasts like "Truth in Love," or featured in church events and online summits.

Their goal isn't just to inform-it's to equip. Whether they're addressing a room of church leaders or a podcast audience of struggling parents, they aim to offer hope, healing, and practical guidance through a biblical lens. That's what sets them apart from other types of speakers.

When people are hurting, they don't just need advice-they need truth delivered with compassion. That's where a biblical counseling speaker comes in. They bridge the gap between theology and emotional health, offering guidance that's both spiritually grounded and psychologically informed.

In a world where mental health is finally getting the attention it deserves, many believers still feel stuck. They want help, but they also want it to align with their faith. A biblical counseling speaker provides that alignment. They speak into issues like anxiety, trauma, and family dysfunction with both scriptural authority and emotional intelligence.

Think about the rise of online summits and virtual conferences. These platforms have made it easier than ever to bring expert voices into people's homes. A biblical counseling speaker can reach thousands with a single talk, offering hope to someone who might never walk into a counselor's office.

They're also crucial for equipping leaders. Pastors, small group leaders, and ministry volunteers often feel unequipped to handle serious emotional issues. A speaker can train and empower them to respond biblically and wisely. That ripple effect can transform entire communities.

So whether it's a podcast, a church event, or a global summit, having a biblical counseling speaker isn't just helpful-it's strategic. They bring clarity where there's confusion, and hope where there's hurt.

Biblical counseling speakers teach, guide, and equip audiences by applying scripture to emotional and relational struggles. But their role goes far beyond just giving a talk. Here's what they actually do:

- Deliver Biblically-Based Talks. They speak on topics like anxiety, grief, addiction, marriage, and identity through the lens of scripture. Their talks are designed to be both theologically sound and emotionally resonant.

- Provide Practical Tools. They don't just quote verses-they offer actionable steps. Whether it's a 3-step framework for conflict resolution or a biblical model for forgiveness, they give audiences something they can use.

- Speak at Diverse Events. From church conferences in the U.S. to virtual summits in Africa, biblical counseling speakers adapt their message to different cultural and denominational contexts.

- Train Leaders and Volunteers. Many also lead workshops or breakout sessions for pastors, small group leaders, and lay counselors. They help others learn how to counsel biblically and compassionately.

- Engage in Q&A and Panel Discussions. They often participate in live Q&A sessions, where they respond to real-life scenarios with biblical insight. This makes their expertise feel personal and relevant.

- Collaborate with Hosts and Platforms. Whether it's through Talks.co, a church network, or a podcast series, they work with event organizers to tailor their message to the audience's needs.

In short, biblical counseling speakers are communicators, counselors, and teachers all rolled into one. They bring scripture to life in ways that speak directly to the heart-and that's what makes their role so impactful.

If you're thinking about becoming a biblical counseling speaker, you're not alone. It's a powerful way to share truth, offer hope, and equip others. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Message and Niche.
- Biblical counseling is broad. Are you focused on marriage restoration? Trauma recovery? Youth discipleship? Pinpoint your area of expertise so your message resonates.
- Tip: Look at what churches, conferences, or podcasts are already covering. Where's the gap? That's your opportunity.

2. Get Trained and Certified.
- While not always required, certification from organizations like the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC) or the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation (CCEF) adds credibility.
- Bonus: These programs often connect you with a network of like-minded professionals.

3. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a short video clip.
- Pro tip: Keep your video under 2 minutes. Make it personal, passionate, and practical.

4. Start Speaking Locally.
- Reach out to local churches, Christian schools, or small conferences. Offer to speak for free or a small honorarium to build your portfolio.
- Don't forget to collect testimonials and footage for your speaker reel.

5. Connect With Hosts and Event Planners.
- Use Talks.co to match with event hosts looking for biblical counseling speakers. You can also network on LinkedIn or Facebook groups like Christian Speakers Collective.
- Tip: Follow up with a short, value-driven message. Show how your talk solves a problem their audience faces.

6. Keep Growing.
- Attend events like the ACBC Annual Conference or the Gospel Coalition to stay current and meet potential collaborators.
- Keep refining your message. Record your talks, watch them back, and ask for feedback.

Becoming a biblical counseling speaker is about more than just getting on stage. It's about stewarding your story and your theology to serve others well.

Being a biblical counseling speaker isn't just about quoting Scripture from a stage. It's about combining theological depth with real-world application in a way that resonates with people who are hurting, searching, or leading others. So what do you actually need to step into this role?

First, you need a strong foundation in biblical counseling principles. That means understanding how Scripture applies to emotional, relational, and spiritual struggles. Many speakers pursue formal training through institutions like the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC) or Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation (CCEF). These certifications not only deepen your knowledge but also signal credibility to event organizers.

Second, you need communication skills. Biblical counseling speakers must be able to translate complex theological truths into relatable, actionable insights. This means practicing storytelling, structuring talks clearly, and engaging your audience. Tools like Toastmasters or speaker coaching can help, but so can simply recording yourself and reviewing your delivery.

Third, you need a platform. Whether it's a Talks.co speaker page, a personal website, or a YouTube channel, you need a place where event hosts can find you, learn about your topics, and see you in action. Include a bio, speaking topics, testimonials, and a short video clip. This is your digital handshake.

Finally, you need a network. Biblical counseling speakers often get booked through relationships. Connect with pastors, ministry leaders, and conference organizers. Attend events, join online groups, and use platforms like Talks.co to match with hosts looking for your expertise.

In short, you need theological training, communication skills, a visible platform, and a strong network. With those in place, you're ready to serve audiences with truth and compassion.

Yes, biblical counseling speakers do get paid, but how much and how often varies widely depending on their experience, audience, and platform. Let's break it down.

In many church settings, especially smaller congregations, speakers may receive a modest honorarium or even speak for free. The motivation here is often ministry-driven rather than financial. However, at larger conferences or faith-based leadership events, compensation can be more substantial.

According to data from Christian speaker bureaus and event planners:
- Entry-level speakers may earn $100 to $500 per event.
- Mid-tier speakers with a strong following or published work can command $1,000 to $3,000.
- High-demand speakers, especially those with books, podcasts, or large social media platforms, may earn $5,000 to $10,000+ per keynote.

Pros:
- Opportunities to sell books or counseling resources.
- Travel and lodging are often covered.
- Speaking can lead to coaching, consulting, or online course sales.

Cons:
- Inconsistent income unless paired with other revenue streams.
- Some events only offer exposure or a donation-based model.

If you're using a platform like Talks.co, you can set your rates and availability, making it easier to attract the right-fit hosts who value your message and are willing to pay for it. So yes, biblical counseling speakers do get paid, but the key is aligning your message with the right audience and platform.

Biblical counseling speakers have multiple income streams, and the most successful ones diversify their offerings. Here's how they typically earn:

1. Speaking Engagements.
- This includes keynotes, workshops, breakout sessions, and retreats. Fees vary based on experience and audience size.
- Example: A speaker at a regional Christian counseling conference might earn $1,500 for a 60-minute session.

2. Book Sales.
- Many speakers write books or devotionals that align with their message. Speaking gigs often boost book sales.
- Example: Paul David Tripp's books are often sold at events where he speaks, increasing both revenue and reach.

3. Online Courses and Webinars.
- Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi allow speakers to create digital counseling courses.
- Tip: Bundle your course with a live Q&A or coaching session for added value.

4. Coaching or Counseling Services.
- Some speakers offer one-on-one or group coaching, especially to pastors or ministry leaders.
- This can be a recurring revenue stream if structured as a monthly program.

5. Affiliate Partnerships.
- Promote counseling tools, books, or training programs and earn a commission.
- Example: Partnering with ACBC or Logos Bible Software for affiliate income.

6. Talks.co Listings.
- By setting up a speaker page on Talks.co, you can get discovered by event hosts and set your own rates.
- Bonus: You can also offer virtual talks, expanding your reach globally.

The key is to think beyond the podium. Speaking is often the front door, but the real income comes from what you offer before and after the talk.

The income of biblical counseling speakers varies significantly depending on factors like experience, audience size, location, and platform presence. Let's look at the numbers and what influences them.
Average Earnings:
- Entry-Level: $100 to $500 per event.
- Mid-Level: $1,000 to $3,000 per keynote.
- High-Level: $5,000 to $10,000+ per event.
Variables That Affect Income:
- Platform Reach: Speakers with large followings (e.g., podcast subscribers, YouTube viewers) can charge more.
- Credentials: Certification from ACBC or CCEF can boost credibility and rates.
- Topic Demand: Topics like trauma recovery, marriage counseling, or mental health in the church often command higher fees.
- Event Type: Church retreats pay less than national conferences or corporate faith-based events.
Additional Revenue Streams:
- Book royalties: $1 to $5 per copy sold.
- Online courses: $50 to $500 per student.
- Coaching packages: $100 to $500 per session.
Comparison Table:

Level	Typical Fee per Talk	Other Income Sources
Beginner	$100 - $500	Free resources, exposure
Intermediate	$1,000 - $3,000	Book sales, coaching
Advanced	$5,000 - $10,000+	Courses, consulting, licensing

So while speaking alone may not make you rich, it can be a significant part of a broader income strategy, especially when paired with digital products or services.

Hiring a biblical counseling speaker can range from affordable to premium, depending on several key factors. If you're an event planner, church leader, or conference host, here's what you can expect.
Typical Cost Ranges:
- Local Church Events: $0 to $500. Many speakers waive fees for small churches or speak for a love offering.
- Regional Conferences: $1,000 to $3,000. These events often budget for travel, lodging, and a speaking fee.
- National or International Events: $5,000 to $10,000+. High-profile speakers with books or media presence fall into this range.
What Influences Cost:
- Speaker Experience: Newer speakers may charge less to gain exposure.
- Topic Complexity: Specialized topics like trauma-informed care or crisis counseling may cost more.
- Event Format: Virtual events often cost less than in-person ones due to no travel.
- Duration: A 30-minute keynote costs less than a full-day workshop.
Cost Breakdown Example:

Item	Estimated Cost
Speaker Fee	$2,000
Travel & Lodging	$800
Meals & Per Diem	$200
Total	$3,000

Using a platform like Talks.co can streamline this process. You can filter speakers by budget, see their rates upfront, and book directly without back-and-forth emails. It's ideal for churches or ministries working with limited resources but still wanting high-quality speakers.
Bottom line: There's a biblical counseling speaker for nearly every budget. Just make sure the value aligns with your audience's needs.

Jay E. Adams. Often considered the father of modern biblical counseling, his book 'Competent to Counsel' laid the foundation for the movement.

Paul David Tripp. Known for his engaging style and gospel-centered approach, Tripp's talks on marriage and personal transformation are widely respected.

Elyse Fitzpatrick. A pioneer in integrating theology with emotional health, her talks often focus on grace, identity, and practical change.

Ed Welch. A senior faculty member at CCEF, Welch is known for his compassionate, Scripture-rich talks on depression, fear, and addiction.

John MacArthur. While primarily a pastor, MacArthur's influence on biblical counseling through The Master's University and his own speaking engagements is significant.

Lou Priolo. Author of 'The Heart of Anger', Priolo's talks are often used in parenting and youth counseling contexts.

Martha Peace. Best known for 'The Excellent Wife', Peace has spoken extensively on biblical womanhood and counseling women in crisis.

Heath Lambert. Former Executive Director of ACBC, Lambert is a strong voice in training and equipping biblical counselors globally.

Stuart Scott. A key figure in biblical counseling education, Scott's talks often focus on leadership, humility, and spiritual growth.

David Powlison. Though passed away in 2019, Powlison's legacy through CCEF and his deeply reflective talks continue to shape the field.

Paul David Tripp (USA). Internationally recognized, Tripp speaks at conferences across North America, Europe, and Asia. His global reach and relatable style make him a top-tier speaker.

Elyse Fitzpatrick (USA). Her books have been translated into multiple languages, and she frequently speaks at international women's conferences and counseling summits.

Heath Lambert (USA). As a global trainer for ACBC, Lambert has spoken in South Africa, the UK, and Latin America, equipping churches worldwide.

Pierre Constant (Canada). A professor at Heritage Seminary, Constant integrates biblical counseling into theological education and speaks across Canada and Europe.

Tim Lane (USA/UK). Formerly of CCEF, Lane now leads the Institute for Pastoral Care and speaks internationally on counseling and discipleship.

Rosaria Butterfield (USA). Though not a traditional counselor, her testimony and talks on identity, repentance, and transformation are widely sought after globally.

Kristen Hatton (USA). Known for her work with teens and families, Hatton's talks resonate across cultures, especially in urban and suburban church contexts.

Joni Eareckson Tada (USA). While more broadly known as a disability advocate, her messages on suffering and biblical hope are deeply rooted in counseling principles and have global impact.

Steve Midgley (UK). Executive Director of Biblical Counselling UK, Midgley is a key voice in expanding biblical counseling across Europe.

Sharon Dickens (Scotland). A leader in women's discipleship and counseling in the UK, Dickens is known for equipping churches to care for women biblically.

Let's unpack a few common misconceptions that tend to float around about biblical counseling speakers. These myths can discourage newcomers or mislead event organizers, so it's worth getting them straight.

1. They only speak in churches.
This is a big one. While many biblical counseling speakers do have church-based audiences, their reach goes far beyond the pulpit. You'll find them at mental health conferences, corporate wellness retreats, university panels, and even online summits. For example, speakers like Dr. Ed Welch and Elyse Fitzpatrick have addressed audiences in both faith-based and secular settings, bridging the gap between spiritual insight and psychological understanding.

2. They aren't trained professionals.
Some assume biblical counseling speakers are just passionate volunteers with no formal education. Not true. Many hold advanced degrees in counseling, theology, or psychology. Organizations like the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC) require rigorous training and certification. In fact, some speakers are licensed therapists who integrate biblical principles with evidence-based practices.

3. They avoid science or psychology.
There's a myth that biblical counseling is anti-science. While some speakers do take a strictly scriptural approach, many embrace psychological tools that align with biblical values. For instance, they might use cognitive behavioral techniques while grounding them in scripture. The key is discernment, not dismissal.

4. They only speak about sin and repentance.
While sin and repentance are central themes, biblical counseling speakers also address anxiety, trauma, addiction, grief, and relationships. They offer holistic guidance rooted in scripture but relevant to real-life struggles. Think of someone like June Hunt, who has spoken extensively on emotional healing, not just moral correction.

5. They're all the same.
Just like motivational speakers vary in tone and focus, so do biblical counseling speakers. Some are academic, others are storytellers. Some focus on marriage, others on addiction recovery. Their diversity is a strength, not a flaw.

Bottom line: biblical counseling speakers are more versatile, educated, and impactful than the stereotypes suggest. If you're considering becoming one or booking one, it's worth looking beyond the surface.

When you look at the journey of successful biblical counseling speakers, it's not a straight line. It's a mix of calling, preparation, and a whole lot of listening. Let's walk through a few examples that show how different paths can lead to the same stage.

Take Paul Tripp. He started as a pastor and professor, but his speaking career took off when he began addressing the emotional and relational struggles people face every day. His talks on parenting and suffering resonate because they're grounded in scripture but speak directly to modern pain points. He didn't just preach-he connected.

Then there's Dr. Julie Ganschow. Her background in counseling and her work with Reigning Grace Counseling Center gave her deep insight into trauma and abuse recovery. She began speaking at women's conferences and training events, eventually becoming a go-to expert in biblical trauma care. Her sessions are known for being both compassionate and theologically rich.

In a completely different context, consider the rise of online biblical counseling voices like Tim Lane. He leveraged webinars and virtual summits to reach a global audience. His talks on anxiety and spiritual growth have been featured on platforms like RightNow Media. He didn't wait for a stage-he built one.

What ties these stories together? They each found a niche, stayed authentic to their message, and used the platforms available to them. Whether it was a local church, a counseling network, or a digital summit, they showed up consistently and spoke with clarity.

Success as a biblical counseling speaker isn't about being the loudest voice. It's about being the most faithful to your audience's real needs. And as these stories show, there's more than one way to do that.

The landscape for biblical counseling speakers is shifting in some interesting ways. Not because the core message is changing, but because the audience, platforms, and expectations are evolving. Here's what's on the horizon.

First, digital-first delivery is becoming the norm. Post-2020, virtual summits, podcasts, and livestreamed workshops have become standard. Speakers who can adapt their message to a screen-without losing depth-are gaining traction. Tools like Talks.co are making it easier for speakers to get matched with podcast hosts and virtual event organizers, expanding their reach beyond traditional venues.

Second, there's a growing demand for culturally contextualized counseling. Audiences in Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia are seeking speakers who understand their unique social and spiritual dynamics. This means bilingual speakers or those with cross-cultural training will be in higher demand. Think of it as the globalization of biblical counseling.

Third, mental health integration is getting sharper. More speakers are collaborating with licensed therapists or incorporating neuroscience into their talks-without compromising biblical fidelity. This hybrid approach appeals to younger audiences who value both faith and science.

Here are a few key trends to watch:

- Micro-niche specialization. Speakers focusing on specific issues like postpartum depression, spiritual abuse recovery, or addiction in ministry families are carving out loyal followings.
- Interactive formats. Workshops that include live Q&A, breakout rooms, or role-play scenarios are more engaging than traditional lectures.
- On-demand content. Audiences want access to talks anytime. Speakers are packaging their sessions into courses, memberships, or YouTube series.
- Collaborative speaking. Panels and co-presented talks are gaining popularity, especially when they bring together diverse voices (e.g., male and female counselors, theologians and clinicians).

The future isn't about being everywhere. It's about being exactly where your audience needs you-with the right message, in the right format, at the right time.

If you're looking to step into the world of biblical counseling speaking, you're going to need more than just a message. You'll need tools, platforms, and communities that help you refine your voice and reach the right audience. Here's a curated list to get you started:

1. Talks.co. This is a podcast guest matching tool that connects speakers with hosts looking for expert voices. It's especially useful for biblical counseling speakers who want to expand their reach through interviews and virtual events. Tip: Create a profile that highlights your niche (e.g., trauma recovery, marriage counseling) to get better matches.

2. ACBC Certification Program. The Association of Certified Biblical Counselors offers a structured path to becoming a recognized counselor. While it's not a speaking course, the credibility and training it provides can open doors to speaking engagements.

3. Faithlife Sermons. A platform where you can publish your talks, outlines, and sermon notes. It's a great way to build a portfolio and get discovered by churches or event organizers.

4. Canva. For creating visually engaging slide decks, social media promos, and event flyers. Even if you're not a designer, Canva's templates make it easy to look professional.

5. Zoom and StreamYard. These are essential for hosting or participating in virtual summits and webinars. StreamYard is especially good for live interviews and panel discussions.

6. The Gospel Coalition Events. Keep an eye on their event calendar. Even if you're not speaking yet, attending or volunteering can help you network and learn what top-tier speakers are doing.

7. Google Scholar. For those who want to integrate research into their talks, this is a goldmine. Look up studies on counseling, trauma, or theology to back up your points with data.

Use these tools not just to build a platform, but to build trust. Because in biblical counseling, your credibility is your currency.