Supporting clergy and ministers in their important job as spiritual leaders of their communities is part of our mission. Half of church leaders are not finding time for personal spiritual development, according to Barna’s 2022 State of the Church report. Only 30 percent of pastors feel well-equipped to help congregants deal with matters of mental or emotional health.
We offer mental health counseling and community outreach to clergy, lay ministers, and congregations to promote mental health and resilience.
Counseling Skills for Clergy
This is a three-part seminar series that covers basic counseling skills that can enhance ministry. The series provides an introduction to some common mental health problems in Western society. There is an overview of how ministers can support individuals and families through pastoral counseling. Topics include those most frequently encountered by ministers in the community (non-medical settings). Seminars can be tailored to specific cultural groups or offered for interfaith and multi-cultural participants.
Ministerial Assessments
Psychological assessment is often a required component of the journey toward religious life. Testing may also be helpful for clergy members who have found themselves in times of acute crisis. Whether or not your denomination has requested psychological testing, this can be a time of personal insight and growth to enrich your current and future ministry. At Samaritan Counseling Center Hawaii, we have a longstanding specialty in clergy care. Our testing services hold this perspective in mind as we work with you to identify your individual strengths and areas of growth. All testing is done by clinical psychologists. Many also hold a degree in theology and have sought out specialized training in the integration of spirituality and assessment.
Congregational Outreach and Education
Faith groups and congregations are often the first place people turn to when they are in distress. It is difficult for people who are hurting to ask for help. We can help congregations and communities recognize the warning signs of mental distress, engage in life-saving conversations, and learn about community services and resources. We can host 1-2 hour workshops or webinars on mental health topics; provide a table at resource fairs; and speak on panel discussions about mental health and integrating spirituality into the healing process. To request a speaker, please use our Request a Speaker Form.
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