Counseling and Mental Health in the Church: The Role of Pastors and the Ministry

Featuring chapters written by mental health professionals who are also experienced Christian practitioners, Counseling and Mental Health in the Church: The Role of Pastors and the Ministry provides ministry leaders with a foundational understanding of common mental health issues, typical approaches to treatment, and sage advice for supporting those experiencing mental health concerns.

Recognizing that parishioners may seek guidance from pastors or others within the church before seeking help from mental health specialists, this text equips ministry leaders with the critical knowledge and helpful resources they need to successfully support and advise members of their congregation, or to direct them to additional useful resources.

Individual chapters address specific concerns, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, addiction, spectrum disorders, and more. Each chapter explores how a particular condition may manifest, how best to respond to it, potential treatment options, and resources to provide to affected individuals. Additional chapters distill the complex world of psychopharmacology as well as a focus on pastoral health in the face of responding to the demands of ministry.

Containing real world examples and case studies to bridge the gap between knowledge and application, Counseling and Mental Health in the Church is an ideal resource for pre-service and seasoned ministry leaders alike. As a result, readers will find that they are better informed and better equipped to face day-to-day challenges.