What is Pastoral Counseling?
Understanding the Role, Training, and Purpose
Pastoral counselors are trained professionals who integrate spiritual guidance with emotional and psychological support. While they are deeply rooted in Christian faith and Biblical principles, they choose to serve individuals and families in a counseling setting rather than a traditional church environment. To do so effectively, they pursue additional education in counseling to better support people through life’s challenges.
What Kind of Training Do Pastoral Counselors Have?
The path to becoming a pastoral counselor can vary widely. Most feel a strong spiritual calling to help others, which leads them to pursue formal education. While some may hold a Bachelor’s Degree in theology or a related field, not all complete a Master’s Degree or Doctorate.
Many pastoral counselors supplement their ministerial experience with training in:
Biblical Counseling
Spiritual Direction
Pastoral Counseling Certification Programs
These programs often focus on human development, behavioral change, and authentic, compassionate care. However, unlike traditional mental health programs, they are not designed to diagnose or treat clinical mental illnesses.
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Why Do People Choose Pastoral Counselors?
Many pastoral counselors come into the field later in life, bringing rich life experiences, wisdom, and deep empathy. They are often drawn to counseling after years of supporting people through emotional pain, grief, or crisis in spiritual communities.
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Most pastoral counselors are:
Deep listeners
Life-long learners
Driven by compassion
Skilled in navigating both spiritual and emotional concerns
Their unique blend of faith-based support and psychological insight offers a comforting and holistic approach to care.
When Should Someone See a Pastoral Counselor?
People seek out pastoral counselors for the same issues they would bring to traditional counselors, including:
Anxiety and depression
Grief and loss
Relationship or family issues
Life transitions or existential crises
People seek out pastoral counselors for the same issues they would bring to traditional counselors, including:
“What do you think God would say about this?”
“My family believes ___, but I’m not sure what I believe anymore.”
“I want help, but I don’t want to be labeled with a diagnosis.”
Because of their spiritual training, pastoral counselors often receive referrals from traditional therapists when clients are exploring their beliefs or facing religious or spiritual struggles.
What If You Don’t Share the Same Beliefs?
Yes, pastoral counselors have their own faith backgrounds, typically rooted in Christianity. However, a professional pastoral counselor:
Respects diverse beliefs and worldviews
Will never impose their faith on clients
Views your spiritual journey as uniquely your own
Seeks to support—not direct—your exploration
They are committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can ask hard questions and feel truly seen.
Are Pastoral Counselors Licensed? Can Insurance Cover It?
Important to know:
In most states (such as Oregon), pastoral counselors are not licensed mental health professionals unless they have completed a Master’s-level degree in counseling or a related field and completed supervised clinical hours.
Because of this, pastoral counseling is usually not covered by insurance.
Pastoral counseling is best viewed as a complementary service—ideal for those seeking emotional support grounded in spiritual understanding.
Summary: Is Pastoral Counseling Right for You?
If you're looking for compassionate guidance that addresses both your emotional well-being and spiritual life, a pastoral counselor may be an excellent fit. Whether you're a person of faith or simply seeking a holistic, non-clinical approach to care, pastoral counseling offers a deeply respectful, meaningful experience.