DESCRIPTION: This course is designed to provide students with a conceptual and
practical overview of mental illness and mental disorders within a pastoral
framework. The minister will be able to identify and distinguish between
categories of mental disorders so he/she can properly refer the person for
specialized care. Issues of crises management, family problems, and
developmental changes affecting the families of the congregation are also
covered. Practical guidelines and principles of pastoral counseling are offered
within a culturally sensitive and meaningful paradigm for the Hispanic
church.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: (1) Students will become familiar with various types of
mental disorders. (2) Students will learn four different types of intervention
strategies when dealing with mental disorders. (3) Students will develop
listening skills. (4) Students will learn to identify their own limitations
when it comes to pastoral counseling and will identify resources within the
community with whom they can work together.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Awareness and identification of mental illness within
the context of the church is critical in terms of an adequate pastoral
intervention in moments of conflict/crisis. At the end of the course the
minister will be able to utilize specific strategies and resources to increase
his/her effectiveness in counseling situations.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet once a week for three-hour sessions, using
the following format: two hours of formal lectures; one hour dealing with real
life situations faced by students in their church settings, including case
presentations, case discussions, and role playing in class. Invited guests will
present on topics of their expertise and conduct laboratory sessions.
REQUIRED READING: