American Association-Pastoral

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About Pastoral Counseling Pastoral Counseling is a unique form of psychotherapy which uses spiritual resources as well as psychological understanding for healing and growth. Pastoral Counselors are certified mental health professionals who have had in-depth religious and/or theological training. The American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC ) represents and sets professional standards for over 3, 000 Pastoral Counselors and 100 pastoral counseling centers in North America and around the world. AAPC was founded in 1963 as an organization which certifies Pastoral Counselors, accredits pastoral counseling centers, and approves training programs. It is non-sectarian and respects the spiritual commitments and religious traditions of those who seek assistance without imposing counselor beliefs onto the client. Persons become members of AAPC through a process of consultation and review of academic and clinical education which leads to competent professional ministry. For members, AAPC offers vital continuing education opportunities; encourages networks of members for professional support and enrichment; facilitates growth and innovation in the ministry of pastoral counseling; and provides both specialized in-service training and supervision in pastoral counseling. While some individuals turn to a psychologist, social worker or psychiatrist, others want support and the opportunity to discuss their problems or illness in a spiritual context. A national survey was conducted by Greenberg Quinlan Research, Inc of Washington, D.C., to explore attitudes toward the role of spiritual values and beliefs in the treatment of mental and emotional problems. The report stated "that an overwhelming number of Americans 69 percent recognize the close link between spiritual faith, religious values, and mental health, and would prefer to seek assistance from a mental health professional who recognizes and can integrate spiritual values into the course of treatment." Religious communities are one of the principal gateways for individuals seeking assistance with depression, grief, marital conflict, substance abuse, family violence, juvenile delinquency and AIDS, among other issues and societal problems. However, most religious leaders have neither the time nor the training in psychotherapy to do extensive, in-depth work. If a situation or crisis requires more than a few informal sessions, it's time to see a certified pastoral counselor.