Description
This course is designed for students to increase their understanding and knowledge of the minister's role and function in crisis counseling. The course will explore the range of theories and strategies for responding to typical parish crisis situations. These typical pastoral care situations would include familial violence, marital discord, suicide, pathological grief, psychological dysfunction, and physical abuse. Students would also be encouraged to reflect on the theological implications in pastoral crisis intervention and the broader ramifications for pastoral ministry. The format for the course is didactic and experiential. Case write-ups and role playing will be primary vehicles for learning. The goal of the course is to increase students' understanding and ability to respond appropriately to the crises that occur in congregational life. Pre-requisite: PTH 141.