PRMN 510A - Foundations of Pastoral Care and Counseling: Part 1

Institution:

Eastern University

Subject:

Practice of Ministry

Description:

This course introduces students to the theology and practice of pastoral care and counseling, both in their theoretical and practical dimensions. Some of the questions it will address are: What is pastoral care? How do we counsel people at times of need? When is it appropriate to counsel, and when is it better to refer people to those who are professionally trained? What practical skills do I need to have, in order to minister to people who are struggling with a crisis in their life, who are grieving the loss of a loved one, who are considering getting married or divorced, who live in a violent household, etc.? How can I take care of myself while I engage pastoral situations, which are often draining and overwhelming? How do I hold on to my faith and hope, as I encounter human realities, which seem un-redeemable and hopeless? How do I develop a plan of care, which helps me respond and anticipate the needs of my congregations? Students will learn the theological and historical foundations of pastoral care and counseling, in the context of congregations and communities of faith. They will practice together skills necessary to offer basic care and counseling, such as listening, presence, crisis intervention and assessment, boundary setting, pastoral assessment, brief counseling, appropriate referrals, etc. They will develop models of self-care, so that abuse of self and other can be prevented. They will engage in ongoing critical reflection about the variety of pastoral practices available so that the complexity and diversity of human realities and experiences can be adequately assessed, engaged and respected.

Credits:

1.50

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.eastern.edu

Phone Number:

(610) 341-5800

Regional Accreditation:

Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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