The UAMS Clinical Pastoral Training Program is accredited by the College of Pastoral Supervision & Psychotherapy, (CPSP).
The CPE program at UAMS Medical Center has a history that extends over thirty years, and is comprised of four programs:
- CPE Residency Program of one year, September through August
- Part Time Extended Daytime Program, 9 months meeting once weekly
- Part Time Extended Nighttime Program, 9 months meeting once weekly
- Full Time Summer Intensive Program – 10 weeks
Chaplain interns and residents serve as hospital chaplains, providing pastoral care and counseling to inpatients, families and hospital staff. Each chaplain in training is assigned to a number of floors and units, providing an opportunity for the trainee to experience the full range of care settings in a modern medical facility.
The trainees provide 24 hour on-call coverage for the Medical Center. In addition, each trainee is required to present case studies, attend didactic seminars, provide written reflections upon reading reviews, meet with their supervisors for individual supervision, conduct a weekly non-denominational service and take part in group relations and interpersonal relationship seminars.
The CPE program focuses on the development of self-awareness, formation of pastoral identity, professional functioning, and the ability to address issues from a competent clinical and pastoral perspective.
The residency program is designed for the ordained person with a seminary degree and at least one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education. On occasion, a lay person may qualify for admission. CPE residents and interns serve as ecumenical chaplains, under supervision, to assigned areas throughout the UAMS Medical Center and clinics. The setting provides a rich base for clinical experience and opportunities for continued personal, professional and pastoral development.