Secular psychology is all over the map, because secular theorists have no authoritative basis from which to work and no absolute truth by which to compare. Trying to explain reality without the Creator's perspective leads to foolish speculation. Christianity and secular psychology conflict on the basis of truth and reality, because the secular world rejects Divine Revelation and has no knowledge of God, Who is ultimate reality. If Christ is the answer and truth sets people free, then every pastoral counselor should have a firm grasp on the Word of God. A good theology is indispensable for any pastoral counselor.
People are in bondage to the lies they believe and are perishing for lack of knowledge.
A pastoral counselor needs to know the truth that sets people free, but that is not enough. They need to have found their own identity and freedom in Christ before they can lead others. No person can impart to others what they don't possess themselves. It is hard to specify a minimum requirement for godly character and pastoral skills. Titus chapter one and 1 Timothy chapter three specify the character requirements, but they can't be simply taught most pastoral skills are learned in the process of ministry.