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Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary Doctor of Ministry Program is launching a new track, Pastoral Counseling and Soul Care, with residencies at the Charlotte campus (2026 and 2027) and at the Center for Professional Development at Emerge Counseling Ministries in Akron, Ohio (2028). This track is designed for the pastor, chaplain, missionary, or parachurch worker to develop and facilitate a healthy biblical and holistic counseling philosophy, ministry, and strategy for their congregation or organization. It focuses on the emotional and soul support needs of the shepherd-leader and sequentially builds towards the development of a theology and strategy for nurturing healthy souls and well-counseled local churches in a rapidly changing world.

“The growth of clinical counseling in Christian and secular settings has brought healing and hope to many hurting people. But despite this growth, there are others who need care that doesn’t fit a clinical setting,” explains Dr. David Currie, dean of the Doctor of Ministry Program. “The Pastoral Counseling and Soul Care track equips those called to provide this kind of care, reflecting theological depth and psychological awareness, in churches and other ministry settings.”

Candidates will be mentored by senior professor of ministry Dr. Rodney Cooper and adjunct co-mentor Dr. Robert Crosby, both of whom, Dr. Currie states, “bring decades of general ministry and counseling training and experience to help those who share their passion to fill this needed context for caring.”

Applications are available online and the deadline is March 1, 2026.