The Tarbiya Seminary is proud to present a new course, "Nurturing Hearts: Practical Counseling for Muslims." Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said, "Whoever relieves a believer's distress in this world, Allah (SWT) will rescue him from a difficulty in the Hereafter." Sahih Imam Muslim.
As believers, we accept that this dunya is a test. We will inevitably need support from our community to confront life's trials. Are you feeling called to be the person your brother or sister can lean on in times of difficulty? Everyone is a spiritual care provider in some way, whether it be through caring for their own families, or others close to them in the community.
In this class, taught by Dr. Imam Sherif Ahmed (Dean of the Tarbiya Seminary) with the assistance of Sr. Elizabeth Moreno (Tarbiya Chaplain), we will offer an in-depth introduction into the principles of Islamic pastoral care. This 10-week course will be an exploration of chaplaincy as both a communal obligation and an act of worship where students will learn:
· The etiquette of counseling Muslims
· To identify symptoms of common mental illnesses and to make referrals to appropriate care providers in the community.
· Practical skills to become a provider of Islamic spiritual care.
· How to develop deep active listening skills.
· How to care for oneself as a spiritual care provider.
· Opportunities for careers in the field of Islamic pastoral care.
Please note: this course requires participation in group peer counseling activities and offers the opportunity to shadow a Tarbiya Chaplain to observe how our Chaplains are actively supporting community members.