San Antonio Clergy Trained in Counseling Through Harvard Program

A group of ten clergy and church members from eight different Christian congregations in San Antonio is participating in a year-long program called EMPOWER, developed by Harvard Medical School. The initiative aims to equip religious leaders with basic counseling skills to assist congregants dealing with issues like depression. The program emphasizes the importance of trust and familiarity in church settings, allowing clergy to provide support while recognizing their limitations and referring more severe cases to professional mental health providers. Minister Greg Carter from Vertical Church highlighted the unique position of churches in fostering open dialogue and trust among their members. As part of their training, participants will engage in internships at the New Opportunities for Wellness (NOW) clinic, where they will conduct skills-building sessions and supervised case studies. Roxanna Johnson, a participant and coordinator at her church, shared her experience of successfully helping a woman find appropriate mental health resources using the skills she acquired. Rev. Paniagua noted that many individuals are more comfortable seeking help from church leaders than traditional mental health professionals, citing the church's role as a trusted space that offers immediate support without the financial burden often associated with therapy. David Roberts, a psychologist at NOW, emphasized the challenge of balancing pastoral care with mental health support, advising clergy to maintain clear boundaries while affirming their congregants' feelings. The EMPOWER program represents a significant step in integrating mental health support within faith communities, aiming to enhance the well-being of congregants while respecting the professional boundaries of mental health care.