Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)

CPE is for anyone who works closely with people and wants to grow in self-awareness, communication, and care.

It is especially valuable for aspiring chaplains, clergy, ministry leaders, healthcare professionals, social workers, counselors, hospice workers, mental health professionals, people serving in corrections or recovery settings, first responders, community leaders, and caregivers.

CPE also supports people who are exploring a calling to spiritual care or who want to strengthen the work they already do in people-centered settings.

CPE helps people grow in both personal and professional ways. Students build confidence in caring for others, improve listening and communication skills, and learn how to respond to crisis, grief, conflict, and change with greater clarity and compassion.

CPE also strengthens emotional awareness, cultural sensitivity, spiritual reflection, and the ability to work well with others. Many students find that CPE not only improves their work, but also deepens their sense of purpose and calling.

CPE prepares people to serve in many settings where spiritual, emotional, and relational care matter.

These settings may include hospitals, hospice and palliative care, mental health programs, parish and congregational ministry, correctional facilities, addiction recovery and rehabilitation programs, military and veteran settings, community chaplaincy, first responder support, disaster and crisis response, and grief or bereavement care.

CPE can support a path toward chaplaincy, strengthen ministry and caregiving roles, and prepare people to serve more effectively wherever compassion, presence, and skilled listening are needed.