Core Counseling

This course, facilitated with ACCFS, aims to motivate, inform, and equip ministers and their wives in the vital area of pastoral counseling. Participants will explore the counselor’s mindset and skillset, learning how to approach counseling with empathy, wisdom, and clarity. The course also focuses on practical strategies for encouraging and helping people in their spiritual and emotional struggles. Through lessons that blend theory with real-world application, ministers and their wives will gain the tools necessary to support and guide individuals in need of pastoral care. This course provides a foundation for effective counseling in the church, fostering a deeper understanding of how to walk alongside others in their journey of healing and growth. Join us as we develop the skills and heart for ministry that truly makes a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Format Description

The course includes individual learning from videos, podcasts, and articles, as well as facilitated group discussions over homework questions.

Time Commitment

• 4 weeks
• 1 hour class discussion once per week remotely
• 2 hours per week of self-paced instruction and personal reflection

Registration

• This class is open to any minister or minister’s wife.
• Once we have enough interest in this course, we will reach out for further scheduling.
• No prerequisite.
• Class size of 4-12 participants.
• This course can also be taken by a pre-arranged group of ministers/wives (ie a church pulpit can choose to take it together on their own timeframe). If you have a group of ministers/wives with whom you would like to take the course, please indicate your group details on the registration form. You will be assigned an ETR facilitator for the course.