From the American Association of Pastoral Counselors

"Pastoral counseling moves beyond the support or encouragement a religious community can offer, by providing psychologically sound therapy that weaves in the religious and spiritual dimension. 'It is interesting to note that not only is this a time of increased emphasis on therapy, but also a time of increased interest in spirituality,' said Gerald DeSobe, Ph.D., past president of American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC). 'Combining these two areas in a person's life in helpful and healing ways is what pastoral counselors do.'

"'AAPC affirms as a moral imperative that the American people, without exception, must have access to quality health care,' says Roy Woodruff, Ph.D., past executive director of AAPC. 'That imperative refers not only to mental health resources, but also the quality of services.'

"Under the auspices of AAPC, pastoral counseling adheres to rigorous standards of excellence, including education and clinical training, professional certification and licensure."