MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES FOR PASTORS
We want to provide our pastors with tools and resources to help them care for their congregation. The following resources may provide pastors with some help regarding common mental health diagnosis. The tools are used by professional counselors when developing treatment plans for clients. This information may also assist the Pastor and Staff with the referral process to additional professionals. This opportunity to provide both Spiritual and Mental Health Counseling enhances the outcome for our Congregation.
Knowing When To Refer: "3A's - Addictions, Adultery, and Abuse. These (3) are common identifiers of "knowing when to refer" to a Professional Counselor. The mental health complexity should be noted when meeting with individuals and couples.
Developing a referral relationship with a Counseling Practice or individual Counselors can create a natural referral process during Pastoral Counseling. Psychology Today provides a tool to find a counselor in your area.
Cost of Counseling: Most people in the Church have some type of Insurance that covers mental health appointments. The coverage ranges from full to partial coverage with Co-Pays and deductibles. The Counseling practice can assist with coverage information or individuals can call the Insurance Company for assistance.
For those who have limited or no mental health coverage, the Church may consider reaching out to a local Counseling Practice and create a Referral Partnership. The Church covers (x) number of sessions with a member committing to a $10-$20 Co-Pay. Most Practices will manage this arrangement with the Church.
It is highly recommended that a co-payment option is developed to create an "investment" environment from the individual. When a person is financially invested, they are more receptive to change and keeping appointments. "Free" minimizes the value/importance of Counseling and reduces the commitment to embrace the required change.
District Commitment to Pastors: The Chicago Central District is committed to the mental health of all of our pastors and families. We have several pastors on our district that serve as counselors and are open and willing to meet with our pastors and their families. The district is willing to cover the cost of the first three sessions of counseling for any pastor on the district. Please reach out to the District Ministry Center or your Mission Area Leader for more information.
Couples Assessment Websites: Prepare & Enrich provides an assessment tool for Premarital Pastoral Counseling and Married Couples Check-Ups. Click here for a sample report. Symbis is another assessment site for Christian Couples.
Other Resources: