Article on bridging the clergy, counseling gap

A step in the right direction?

newsnet.byu.edu/story.cfm/72149

Thank you for sharing this article. When people run into problems they have the option to seek help from priesthood leaders/clergy, physicians and professional therapists. It is always in the client’s best interest when these efforts work together as complements. We need to remain cognizant as members and as leaders within our church that although priesthood leaders have a spiritual mantle and can be incredibly useful to those they counsel, they are not trained professionals in the mental health arena. Leaders need to be willing to refer members to professionals when deemed appropriate, and members need to be willing to seek professional help. Heavenly Father expects us to take advantage of current technology and resources that He has blessed us with as part of developing our problem solving skills. Programs such as described in this article are definitely steps in the right direction.