MCCS Services for Clergy
MCCS recognizes the needs and stressors of the pastor working within the pastorate and well as the needs of the pastoral family. To this end we offer a number of resources specifically for pastors.
Clergy Educational Resources
MCCS Staff can be available for clergy group retreats on a variety of topics. In addition, the following groups and resources specifically designed for clergy and parish care are also offered from time to time. Check the links or contact the resource staff member for scheduling.
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✤ Pastoral Care Consultation Groups — (Dr. Mark Larson, contact person)
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✤ Stressed in the Parish — (Dr. Jonathan Golden, contact person)
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✤ Resource Group for Moving Clergy — (Dr. John Arey, contact person)
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✤ Congregational Trauma Response — (Dr. Mark Larson, contact person)
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✤ The Sane Parish — (Dr. Jonathan Golden, contact person)
Individual Clergy Counseling, Assessment, and Consultations
The stressors that pastors face in the parish can at times seem overwhelming. While parishioners will often come to the pastor with problems, to whom does the pastor turn for help? As persons trained in both theology and mental health counseling—and with a standard of confidentiality—MCCS pastoral counselors are in a unique position to serve the needs of parish clergy and their families.
The most frequently cited reason for leaving the pastorate early is burnout. Burnout is the product of several different factors coming together in the life of a pastor, including the combination of individual personality traits, work environment factors, and spiritual orientation and resources. Knowing how to spot the stressors of potential burnout and then how to deal with them can keep you fresh in ministry. Assessment and counseling services are provided by licensed therapists with additional training in both psychological assessment and the unique needs of clergy.
In addition, MCCS can provide vocational reassessment and counseling for clergy struggling with their call and their place in the parish ministry.
Service Costs
Medical insurances often cover the cost of therapy, usually with a nominal co-pay. Otherwise an adjusted fee can be negotiated with the individual therapist. See our notice of fees.
Confidentiality
The pastor’s relationship to the therapist and MCCS is a private matter. Even the fact that someone seeks counseling is private. As a result, all information is kept confidential and will not be shared without the pastor’s written permission. See our notice of confidentiality.
