Dr. Shawn & his wife Irma
Christian Counselor & Life Coach
About Dr. Shawn
Dr. Shawn Kirk is a Professor of Christian Counseling at Christian Bible Institute & Seminary where he has trained and certified over 1,000 students in Christian Counseling, Loss & Grief Counseling, and Christian Life Coaching through CBIS and its subsidiary – The National Association of Christian Counselors.
He is the author of Transformation, Advance & Triumph and Sound Mind – Sound Life, and is an Ordained Minister through his alma mater, Christian Bible Institute & Seminary.
Dr. Shawn is known for his warm, compassionate, and accepting teaching style. He is deeply motivated by a calling to help people grow emotionally, spiritually, personally, and professionally. His approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and real-life understanding, making his training especially effective for those working with individuals and couples.
Having personally navigated significant life challenges, Dr. Shawn brings both academic excellence and life experience to his work. He holds a PhD in Clinical Christian Counseling, a PhD in Theology, and a Bachelor’s degree in Ministry from Christian Bible Institute & Seminary. He is also a graduate of the Tony Robbins–Chloe Madanes Life Coaching School, a SYMBIS Certified Pre-Marriage Facilitator, and is credentialed in Anger Management and Temperament Counseling.
In addition, Dr. Shawn is a proud Veteran of the United States Army. He resides in the Kennewick, Washington area and has been married to his wife, Irma, for over 31 years.
A message from Dr. Shawn
Thank you for visiting my website. I’m truly glad you’re here.
Choosing a certification training program is an important decision, rather than offering a polished marketing script, I want to speak to you honestly and from the heart. I believe it’s important that you know who I really am as you consider whether this ministry and training are right for you.
My purpose is to train and equip Christian leaders to help individuals and couples experience lasting change—to move from where they are today to where God is calling them to be. I fulfill this calling by training and certifying pastors and Christian leaders to counsel and coach God’s people with both biblical truth and practical skill. I also preach, teach, and write books, it is my prayer that one or more of these areas will help you step confidently into your God-given calling.
I believe Christians should not fear or avoid the term psychology. Much of what I studied in psychology and counseling in bible college first appeared in Scripture. To understand the human mind, we must begin with its Creator. I firmly believe that the science of psychology and the truth of Scripture align—because God created them both. In my teaching, I integrate psychology and counseling principles with Scripture, while always allowing God’s Word to lead.
My life has not always looked as it does today. My parents divorced when I was four years old, and I was moved back and forth between them throughout my childhood. As a young man, I struggled with addiction, identity, and direction. At age 21, while serving in the United States Army, I spent five weeks in an inpatient treatment center for alcohol and drug abuse. These experiences shaped my heart and gave me a deep understanding of the emotional, spiritual, and practical struggles many people face.
As a child of divorce, helping counselors support couples—not only to save their marriages, but to see their families heal and flourish—is especially close to my heart. And as someone who battled depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem, and lack of purpose, I am passionate about helping others navigate these challenges and move forward into a life of freedom and calling.
I have also served as a Director of Operations in Corporate America which gives me firsthand understanding of the pressures of balancing professional demands with ministry, emotional, spiritual, and family life. I believe this combination of education, experience, and leadership uniquely equips me to train and credential Christian leaders who are ready to make a real difference.
Always remember—God loves you, and so do I.
Christian Counselor & Life Coach