Pastoral Counselor
Help Others Through Spiritual Well-Being
Do you believe that spiritual health contributes to mental well-being? Pastoral counseling may be the career for you!
Pastoral counselors combine theological practices with behavioral sciences to cultivate mental health. Integrating spiritual values into traditional forms of counseling offers a unique opportunity to help others achieve personal growth goals.
Pastoral counselors have the opportunity to lead an assortment of programs, including:
- Marriage preparation
- Divorce adjustment
- Coping with grief
- Dealing with sexual abuse
You may also work in a variety of locations. Often, pastoral counselors partner with congregations and community centers. Classes are sometimes offered as part of adult education or community education programs. You may also work on an individual level with those facing debilitating mental disorders.
Am I Cut Out to Become a Pastoral Counselor?
Pastoral counseling licensure varies by state, occupational specialty, and work setting. This career presents a variety of opportunities to inspire individuals' spiritual and mental well-being in unique situations. You must have the desire to help others and should be able to work in a potentially stressful environment. Pastoral counseling is an opportunity to explore the potential of spirituality in human wholeness.