Chaminade University of Honolulu

School of Humanities, Arts and Design

Pastoral Counseling Certificate

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Master of Pastoral Theology (MPT) – Pastoral Counseling Certificate

Theological reflection as preparation for active ministry.

Ministry in the Church is a calling. Challenging, yes, but incredibly fulfilling.

The graduate Certificate of Pastoral Counseling and Spiritual Direction will explore foundational issues underlying effective counseling, particularly as it impacts on pastoral counseling and spiritual direction in a multicultural environment. While learning the basics of pastoral counseling and spiritual direction, one of the outcomes of this program is a clear understanding of when and to whom referrals must be made in the context of everyday lay ministry.

  1. An understanding of the foundational issues and skills in the profession of counseling.
  2. An understanding of the principles of managing counseling sessions within a cross-cultural setting and recognize cultural clues essential for understanding the client’s situation.
  3. An understanding of the spiritual dimensions within the counseling encounter and suggest strategies for successful integration of these dimensions into pastoral counseling.
  4. An understanding of the relationship between theological reflection and psychological theory and how psychology approaches the religious experience and consciousness.
  5. Basic counseling skills and understanding of when a client requires professional care beyond this basic care.
  6. Basic strategies in spiritual direction through in-class role playing.
  7. Integration of basic theories of spiritual direction with her or his own personal spiritual reflection and journey.
  8. A model of pastoral counseling and spiritual direction that integrates prayer and active engagement with their faith communities.

This certificate requires a minimum of 24 credits.

Core Requirements
  • PL 670/PSY 521 Personality
  • PL 671/PSY 601 Ethical and Professional Issues in Counseling
  • PL 673/PSY 603 Introduction to Counseling Skills
  • PL 675/PSY 611 Group Processes
  • PL 771/PSY 736 Cross-Cultural Counseling
  • PL 775/PSY 773 Spiritual Dimensions of Counseling
Summer Intensive I Requirements
  • RE 685 Pastoral Counseling
Summer Intensive II Requirement
  • RE 687 Spiritual Directions

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AJ SIMPAO
Admissions Counselor, Graduate & Flex Programs
[email protected]
(808) 739-8523

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