The Master of Pastoral Care and Counseling is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for providing spiritual and emotional support in a variety of settings, including churches, hospitals, and community organizations. This program integrates theological education with counseling practices.
40 Credit Hours
MFC 501 Foundations of Pastoral Care
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles and practices that underpin effective pastoral care. This course will introduce students to the theological, psychological, and practical aspects of providing care within a ministry context. Emphasizing the importance of empathy, active listening, and spiritual support, students will learn how to respond to the diverse needs of individuals and communities, equipping them to be compassionate and effective caregivers. Textbook: “Pastoral Care: An Essential Guide,” John Patton.
MTC 510 Theories of Counseling
This course serves as a foundational text for understanding the diverse theoretical frameworks that inform counseling practices. This course will explore major counseling theories, including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic approaches, while focusing on their application in pastoral settings. By analyzing case studies, students will develop a deeper understanding of how these theories can enhance their counseling skills and effectiveness in providing pastoral care. Textbook: “Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy: A Case Approach” by Lynn Zubernis and Andrew W. M. Lee.
MSF 520 Spiritual Formation and Care
This course emphasizes the integration of spiritual formation and caregiving practices. This course will explore the role of spiritual care in nurturing the emotional and spiritual well-being of individuals. Students will learn various spiritual care techniques, including prayer, meditation, and reflective practices, enabling them to foster deeper connections with those they serve. By understanding the interplay between spirituality and mental health, students will be equipped to provide holistic care that addresses both the soul and the psyche. Textbook: “Spiritual Care: A Guide for Caregivers,” by Kenneth H. C. Hsu.
MDP 530 Developmental Psychology
This course provides essential insights into the various stages of human development. This course will explore the psychological and social factors that influence individual growth, focusing on how these stages impact emotional and spiritual well-being. Students will learn to apply developmental theories to pastoral counseling, allowing them to better understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced by individuals at different life stages. Textbook: “Development Through Life: A Psychosocial Approach” by Barbara M. Newman and Philip R. Newman.
MCI 540 Crisis Intervention
This course is an outline of effective methods for responding to individuals in crisis. This course will equip students with the tools and techniques necessary for providing immediate support in times of distress, including strategies for assessment, intervention, and follow-up care. Emphasizing the importance of a compassionate and practical approach, students will learn to navigate the complexities of crisis situations, enabling them to offer hope and healing to those in need. Textbook: “Crisis Intervention Strategies,” by Richard K. James and Burl Gilliland.
MTSH 550 Theology of Suffering and Healing
This course provides profound insights into the relationship between suffering and healing in the context of pastoral care. This course will explore theological perspectives on suffering, examining how the experience of pain can lead to spiritual growth and transformation. Students will reflect on their own experiences of suffering and learn how to minister effectively to those in pain, fostering healing through empathetic presence and spiritual guidance. Textbook: “The Wounded Healer: Ministry in Contemporary Society” by Henri J. M. Nouwen.
MCDC 560 Counseling in Diverse Contexts
This course emphasizes the importance of cultural competence in counseling practices. This course will explore the impact of culture on mental health and counseling, preparing students to work effectively with diverse populations. By examining various cultural frameworks and their implications for pastoral care, students will develop the skills necessary to provide sensitive and inclusive counseling that respects the unique backgrounds of individuals and families. Textbook: “Culturally Responsive Therapy: Principles and Techniques,” by S. M. T. W. Wong
MFST 570 Family Systems Theory
This course serves as a foundational text for understanding family dynamics and systems theory. This course will explore the principles of family systems theory, focusing on how family relationships impact individual behavior and emotional health. Students will learn to apply these concepts in pastoral counseling, enabling them to address family issues holistically and promote healthy communication and relationships within families. Textbook: “Family Therapy: Concepts and Methods” by Michael P. Nichols and Sean D. Davis.
MEPC 580 Ethics in Pastoral Counseling
examines the ethical dilemmas faced by pastoral counselors. This course will explore key ethical principles and decision-making frameworks that guide pastoral practice. Students will engage in case studies and discussions that challenge them to consider the moral implications of their counseling choices, ensuring they are equipped to provide care that is both compassionate and ethically sound. Textbook: “Ethics in Pastoral Care: A Guide for the Practicing Minister,” by John C. Thomas.
MGCS 590 Group Counseling in a Spiritual Context:
This course will explore the dynamics of group counseling within a spiritual context, emphasizing how group settings can foster community and mutual support. Students will learn to design and lead effective group sessions that promote healing, growth, and spiritual connection among participants. Textbook: “Group Counseling: Strategies and Skills” by Ed E. Jacobs, Christine N. Schimmel, and Dana M. Harvill provides essential techniques for facilitating group counseling sessions.
MPC 600 Mindfulness and Spiritual Care
In this course, students will explore the integration of mindfulness practices into pastoral care and counseling. Focusing on the benefits of mindfulness for emotional and spiritual well-being, students will learn techniques such as meditation and mindful awareness. By understanding how mindfulness can enhance their counseling approaches, students will be equipped to help individuals cultivate inner peace and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. Textbook: “The Mindful Way Through Depression: Freeing Yourself from Chronic Unhappiness” by Mark Williams, John Teasdale, Zindel Segal, and Jon Kabat-Zinn.
MCC 610 Grief Counseling and Support
This course will delve into the complexities of grief and the processes individuals undergo during times of loss. Using Kübler-Ross and Kessler’s insights, students will learn to provide compassionate support and counseling for those experiencing grief. Through understanding the stages of grief, students will be equipped to create safe spaces for healing, facilitate meaningful conversations about loss, and guide individuals through their unique grieving journeys. Textbook: “On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss” by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and David Kessler
Research Thesis Three (3 to choose from) (4 Credit Hours)
Title: “Healing Through Grief: A Pastoral Approach to Grief Counseling”
Pages: 25
Word Count: 10,000
Title: “The Role of Spirituality in Mental Health: Integrating Faith and Counseling Practices”
Pages: 25
Word Count: 10,000
Title: “Cultural Sensitivity in Pastoral Care: Approaches to Counseling Diverse Populations”
Pages: 25
Word Count: 10,000