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Factors Affecting Clergy-Psychologist Referral Patterns, Mark R. Mcminn, Steven J. Runner, Jennifer A. Fairchild, Joshua D. Lefler, Rachel P. Suntay

Faculty Publications - Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) Program

Recent research on clergy-psychologist collaboration has resulted in helpful principles for clergy and psychologists working together, but very little is known about what specific characteristics in clergy are appealing to psychologists and vice versa. Two experimental survey studies are reported, both exploring characteristics that enhance or hinder collaboration. In Study 1, Southern Baptist pastors rated the likelihood of referring to a counselor who was identified as either a Biblical Counselor or a Christian Psychologist, and was identified as either being excellent in interpersonal skills or as using scripture and prayer in counseling. Pastors demonstrated a preference for counselors using scripture …