Together we aim to better understand: 1) the signs and symptoms of depressive disorders and bipolar disorder; 2) the biopsychosocial nature of these conditions; 3) the important roles of mental health professionals in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mood disorders; 4) identifying general resources in our communities to which pastors can make referrals. The dangers of suicidality and self-harm will also be discussed. see more here: https://www.shepherdheartconsulting.com/depression-bipolar-disorder-the-church/

Together, we will discuss the nature of dementia, in general, and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), in particular. We will talk about the importance of thorough medical and neuropsychological assessment to arrive at an accurate diagnosis, as this informs treatment and prognosis. Caretaker awareness of the neurological progression of AD may help caretakers and loved ones know what to anticipate. We will distinguish early-, middle-, and late-stage symptoms of AD from the changes in memory and cognition that are often a part of normal cognitive aging. Current treatments for AD will be discussed. Strategies in caretaking will be explored, as well as special considerations for the self-care and personal needs of caregivers. Faith may offer some spiritual resources for people living with dementia and their loved ones.

Together, we will discuss characteristics of schizophrenia and related problems. We will explore “positive” symptoms (including hallucinations & delusions), “negative” symptoms (such as blunted emotional expression, lack of pleasure, etc.), as well as cognitive involvement in schizophrenia. Prevalence, ages of onset, environmental and genetic factors will be taken into consideration. Community resources and current treatment options for patients and family members will be discussed. We will engage in conversation around religious experience and beliefs, juxtaposed to hallucination and delusion. What are possible roles of faith in coping and resilience?

See the full description of this 2-part event.  Registration deadlines are May 3 (part 1) and May 17 (part 2).  Cost for each part is $50.  Events are listed in Pacific Time.  Video Conference via Zoom.    

  Feeling stuck in your sermon prep for Sunday?  We're here with you!  Every Tuesday @ noon PDT, we're Zooming in together to do some community exegesis...  So brush off your Greek New Testament & your TaNaKh - the Hebrew Scriptures!  (or, pull up  a biblehub English interlinear...)  We're doing a quick run-through/Bible study of the lectionary texts for the upcoming Sunday's scriptures. This is for fun & devotion - free to anyone & everyone!    See you soon, Preachers…

In Pastoral Counseling, it is foundational to set the “frame” of your time together with the counselee. We will discuss why this is not only essential to the integrity of the pastoral counseling process, but to the integrity of the pastor, herself/himself. While “informed consent” is common (and in some cases, legally required) within secular counseling, it remains seldom practiced within settings of pastoral counseling – despite the great potential for benefit and enrichment of the work.