Main description:

* Continues to be an indispensable text for mental health professionals and pastoral counsellors.
* Updated according to the latest empirical research and DSM-V.
* Revised chapters significantly cover issues regarding diversity and culture which clergy may struggle with, as well as diagnostic interviewing and cultural humility.
* Written in a consistent, easy-to-follow structure in each chapter includes case example, introduction, key indicators, and recommendations
* Updated citations and references to psychological disorders throughout, with special emphasis on the family.
* helps pastors understand some of the most widely used and evidence based treatments and what to look for when referring to professionals (e.g., licensure, board certification, specialty training and certification, etc.).

* highlights the limited role of medication for most mental health difficulties and when its use is indicated.
* Members of the clergy are frequently the first person a parishioner seeks out for support, guidance, and assistance when grappling with many of life's challenges and problems. Ensuring that members of the clergy are appropriately trained to serve in this role is of vital importance

Contents:

1. Why a Minister's Guide 2. Ministerial Triage: Empathy, Assessment, and Cultural Humility 3. Types of Mental Health Treatment 4. The Parishioner in Distress: Major Psychological Disorders, Part I 5. The Parishioner in Distress: Major Psychological Disorders, Part II 6. Causing Distress in Others: Maladaptive Personalities 7. Children and the Family in Distress: Childhood and Relationship Problems 8. Referring to Mental Health Professionals 9. Ethical Guidelines: What to Expect From Mental Health Professionals