1. What should the pastoral counsellor’s role be in working with children with counselling needs?
The pastoral counsellor’s role is to provide a safe, compassionate, and spiritually grounded space where children feel heard, supported, and valued. They should use age-appropriate methods to help children express their feelings and experiences, while also guiding them with biblical truth, prayer, and emotional care. The counsellor must work with wisdom, sensitivity, and respect for the child’s developmental stage and unique needs, while collaborating with families, teachers, or professionals where necessary to ensure holistic support.
2. What is one of the ways you have learned about in the content covered that you can begin to use when talking with children at risk?
One method I’ve learned and found helpful is the use of play therapy or creative expression, such as drawing, storytelling, or using toys. These tools help children express thoughts and emotions they might not be able to verbalize directly. This approach creates a non-threatening environment that allows the child to open up and feel safe. By observing their play or creative work and gently engaging in conversation, the counsellor can gain insight into the child’s inner world and begin to offer appropriate spiritual and emotional guidance. It also builds trust and gives the child a sense of control in a process that might otherwise feel overwhelming.