CSL 634 Introduction to Catholic Pastoral Counseling
This course offers a historical look at the discipline of pastoral counseling and then introduces a framework for considering what is meant by Catholic pastoral counseling by grounding the practice in Catholic social doctrine and writings. The course invites students to consider the professional identity, responsibilities, goals, and functions of Catholic counselors who work in pastoral settings. Major course topics include the study of spiritual and pastoral care, the intersection of faith and counseling, the experience of attending to mental health needs in a pastoral way, clinical issues of particular moral and social concern, social justice teachings, ethics issues, and special populations served in pastoral settings.