The Care of Souls

Certified pastoral counseling is a unique form of emotional healthcare that uses spiritual resources as well as the best in psychological understanding for healing and growth. It is provided by individuals who are not only mental health professionals but persons who have in-depth religious training and education and maintain state licensure. The American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC) is organized in response to the need for leadership and standards for certified pastoral counseling. AAPC is the leading organization that certifies ministers, pastoral counseling centers and training programs worldwide in the ministry of pastoral psychology. Serving the Church and larger community, AAPC has established standards for the practice of pastoral counseling including education, certification and accreditation. Our members adhere to a Code of Ethics to ensure the delivery of high quality counseling, psychotherapy and other related services. This is very important as care and counseling in congregations and communities has become very complex. Many people are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, marital and family conflict, substance abuse and violence. The responsibility for committed ministers in enormous.