Pastoral Counselors’ Perceptions Regarding Supervision/Consultation to Prevent Burnout and Ethical Violations

Abstract Many clergy members and spiritual leaders offer counseling services to their congregation and community members. This narrative inquiry study sought to determine whether clergy and other spiritual leaders believe monitoring or consultation can reduce burnout, stress, and ethical violations. Semi structured interviews with 15 pastoral counselors were conducted to assess their attitudes regarding professional aid and self-care training and education. The results indicated that the participants recognize burnout and stress and are aware of the need to incorporate interventions. Four major themes emerged from the interviews: balancing of roles and responsibilities, challenges such as burnout and ethical issues, strategies to deal with ethical issues and challenges, and strategies to deal with stress and burnout. These themes suggest a deeper emphasis of not only the exploration of, but also the importance of a supportive infrastructure for the practice of pastoral counseling.