Pastoral Counseling

Abstract

Pastoral counseling is redefining itself in a changing environment. This paper will document the self-defining conversations ongoing in one pastoral counseling training center. Using focus groups as a research technique, interns in training expressed themes of uncertainty. Those faculty administering and guiding the trainees expressed thoughts about the identity of pastoral counselors. This training center's institutional responses to these issues are listed. Finally, we invite other training centers and faculty to join this current conversation.

Key Words:

• Professional identity
• qualitative research
• spirituality
• internship
• definition
• focus group
• curriculum