Pastoral Counselling
Pastoral Counselling & psychotherapy uses well researched psychological and clinical practices as well as spiritual resources for healing and growth.
In Ireland today there is an increased emphasis on therapy and also an increased interest in spirituality. Combining these two areas in a person’s life in helpful and healing ways is what pastoral counsellors do.
Pastoral counselling moves beyond the typical “illness model” by providing psychologically sound therapy that recognises a clients spiritual dimension.
Members of the NAPCP adhere to rigorous standards of excellence, including education and clinical training, professional certification and accreditation. As a result of this extensive study, pastoral counsellors are among the most educated of mental health professionals.
Beyond education and training, continuous accreditation is also key in ensuring excellence in pastoral counselling. Candidates seeking accreditation by NAPCP are thoroughly tested and evaluated to assure that NAPCP certifies only the most competent individuals who not only have the required education and clinical training but who possess the highest personal standards.
An American survey conducted by Greenberg Quinlan Research, Inc. of Washington, D.C., to explore attitudes toward the role of spiritual values and beliefs in the treatment of mental and emotional problems reported "that an overwhelming number of people [69 percent] recognize the close link between spirituality, faith values, and mental health, and would prefer to seek assistance from a mental health professional who recognizes and can integrate spiritual values into the course of treatment."
Choosing a counsellor who's right for you
COUNSELLING is a very personal relationship. So it works best if you find a therapist you feel really comfortable with. Here are some issues you might want to consider when you're choosing a counsellor.
Practical Issues
- How quickly can the counsellor see me?
- How flexible will they be if I need to change the time of my appointment?
- How much will a counselling session cost?
- Can they offer me ways of continuing to build my skills and confidence once my counselling is finished?
How Competent is the Counsellor?
- Does the counsellor have the knowledge, skills and experience to work with the sort of issues I have?
- If I have issues involving other people, is the counsellor able to work with a wider group of people?
- Does the counsellor have a professional development plan that shows their skills and knowledge that are up to date?
- Will they recognise the strengths and resources I already have and help me build on these rather than acting as the "expert"?
How Safe Will I Be?
- Is the counsellor supervised by another professional to ensure they practice safely?
- Is there someone I can go to within the counsellor's organisation or professional association if I have a problem with them?
- Does the counsellor meet my needs in terms of their gender, culture, understanding of sexuality, etc?