Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Program
Professional Training for Compassionate, Skilled Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care
At Christian Health, our Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Program provides a transformative, hands-on learning experience for individuals called to serve, through chaplaincy, pastoral counseling, and ministry. Designed for laity, ordained clergy, and ministry students, this program equips participants with the clinical training and spiritual insight required to deliver high-quality, compassionate pastoral care in a variety of complex environments.
Program Overview
Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) is an interfaith professional training and education program in pastoral and spiritual care. The program facilitates the development of pastoral identity, interpersonal competence, pastoral assessment skills, professional collaboration, group leadership, pastoral care and counseling, and pastoral theological reflection while doing the work of a clinical chaplain in a clinical setting. CPE is nationally recognized as the highest standard for pastoral care education in a clinical setting.
Who Should Apply for CPE?
Clinical Pastoral Education offers learning and professional growth for individuals seeking to deepen their pastoral, spiritual, and clinical competencies, including:
- Students of theology, clergy, or lay leaders seeking to develop pastoral communication skills
- Health care professionals and clinicians (e.g. RNs, Social Workers, related disciplines)
- Community leaders
- Pastors and persons of faith seeking to expand their understanding of health ministry in institutional settings
- Lay ministers seeking religious, spiritual, and professional growth
- Chaplains pursuing board certification at all levels
- Individuals interested in the role of faith and spirituality in healing and interpersonal development
Program Structure and Learning Experience
- Supervisory CPE Program: minimum of two-year commitment as offered
- CPE Residency Program of one year: September through August
- Internships (Fall and spring): September through December and January through April
- Full Time Summer Intensive: May through August
Apply to the Program
Complete the application to begin your journey toward meaningful, impactful pastoral care.
Download the CPE Application Form
Accreditation
The CPE program at Christian Health is dually accredited by the College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy (CPSP) and Clinical Pastoral Education International (CPEI).
For more information, please contact us at CPEProgram@ChristianHealthNJ.org or (201) 848-5839.