MDIV Clinical Pastoral Education

Catalog description

Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) is an interreligious, experiential method of learning that brings students into supervised encounters with persons in crisis. Through lectures, open group process, theological reflection, onsite clinical instruction, and individual supervision, students learn the techniques, skills and self-awareness needed for the competent practice of spiritual care. CPE invites student to grow in awareness of the ways that beliefs, values, family of origin dynamics, and major orienting life events present both resources and challenges to effectively supporting the spiritual health and well-being of others. CPE students are assigned to clinical or community site placements such as hospices, hospitals, religious communities, and non-profits for the duration of the course, where they serve as student chaplains. ACPE application and permission from the instructor is required.