Calling All "Would Be" Counselors

By Bill W., IPS Student, Pastoral Counseling

What in the world is a secular-minded, “dabbling” Catholic layperson doing in Loyola University’s Pastoral Counseling program through IPS?

Studying to become a counselor, of course.

Contrary to my first thoughts when I heard the term “Pastoral Counseling,” this program is not just for ordained folks. It is geared to prepare one to become an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor). It definitely involves spirituality, but also aims to train students in the skills of counseling as developed in the psychology field.

At least that’s what I think we are doing. I just began my first week here. I take classes two days a week, pretty much all day, which constitutes full-time status. This is a master’s program, but learning doesn’t take place only in the classroom. One professed goal of the program is to encourage students to integrate their learning into their lives in order to grow spiritually and become better counselors.

The process for me of getting to Loyola took some time (what I have learned is called “discernment”), which apparently is not uncommon. From what I am finding out from classmates, professors and class readings, the road to God and a call to “ministry” (or more simply, helping others) takes many forms but often hits people the same.

What did I notice most about starting school at IPS? The most obvious thing is how diverse the student population is. There are people from numerous countries, all ages, many different career and education paths, and all sorts of faiths. But the most refreshing aspect for me is how good it feels to be among so many good, forthright, open and honest people.

I am pretty sure all of us want to give of ourselves to others. All of us want to use ourselves as tools for alleviating spiritual and psychological pain. Hopefully that is exactly what Loyola’s IPS Pastoral Counseling program will prepare me to do. It’s an exciting time for me. I am very fortunate to be starting this journey at IPS. I can’t wait to see what lies on the road ahead.

So when was the last time you were invigorated by what’s going on in your life? Tell us about it in the Comments section. If there is one thing I have learned – it’s the sharing of real human experience that makes life so rewarding.