Training and Education of North American Master's of Divinity Students in Relation to Serious Mental Illness

Abstract

Individuals in psychological distress often seek out assistance and support from pastors. To determine the extent of mental health training students preparing for the pastorate receive, Master's of Divinity (MDiv) programs at accredited seminaries in the North America were surveyed after contact by telephone. Of the 70 seminaries assessed, 88% offered courses in which the topic of mental illness was addressed in some form (although this point may not have been in a counseling course). Of those seminaries, 43% offered a counseling course or courses specifically dedicated to mental illness. All church traditions reported a minority of seminaries that provided courses dealing with mental illness. These findings emphasize the need for increased mental health awareness and education in seminaries.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Halle E. Ross

Halle E. Ross is a doctoral candidate in clinical psychology at Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA. Her research interests include the interactions between religion and mental health.

Matthew S. Stanford

Matthew S. Stanford is professor of psychology, neuroscience and biomedical studies at Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA. As a Fellow of the Association for Psychological Science, his research focuses on the interplay between psychology and issues of faith.