Special Interest Groups (SIGs)
SIGs provide valuable support and growth opportunities for CPA members, both at annual conferences, and throughout the year! SIG leaders are encouraged to facilitate meetings and discussions throughout the year, formally or informally, and be responsive to CPA members who contact them regarding questions and needs related to the focus of the group. SIG leaders (and ongoing members) must be current members of the CPA.
Groups of CPA members sharing a common professional interest or specialization may form a SIG to enjoy benefits such as:
- Networking and peer collaboration
- Meet at annual conferences and remotely (as organized by SIG leaders)
SIG leaders will:
- Facilitate a meeting or discussion at the Annual CPA Conference
- Be listed and function as points of contact for the SIG
A new SIG may be formed by contacting the Membership Committee Chair at jmadere@catholicpsychotherapy.org
Current SIGs
- Seminary Assessment Group - Vocational assessment instruments and best practice.
- Public resource page here. Members only resource page here.
- Seminary assessment brochure: Download here
Contact: Eric Gudan, PsyD. dr.gudan@integritaspsych.com
- Students & Emerging Leaders - CPA members who are students in, and/or within 5 years post-graduation from a masters or doctoral program in a mental health field.
Contact: Chris Stravitsch, DMin, LPC-S, LMFT-S. cstravitsch@catholicpsychotherapy.org
- Catholic School and Parish Based Counseling - This SIG provides a forum for clinicians and others who are interested in developing counseling services for Catholic Schools (preschool through University level) and parishes as well as those who are already providing services.
- Deliverance & Exorcism Ministry - CPA members who are current Academic, Clinical and clergy or religious within other member classifications who are interested in participating in this SIG may send documentation of the listed criteria to the SIG contact below.
- Members only resource page here.
Because of the sensitive nature of the subject matter, members who apply will be expected to verify the following:
1. Current, active participation in a ministry team, diocese, or collaboration with clergy
2. Attestation to the Catholic understanding of the demonic as an active creature which can influence the health and well-being of people
3. Absolute acceptance of and obedience to the apostolic authority of one's Bishop in combating the enemy
4. Ability to work from a trauma-informed perspective with clients
5. Current and ongoing reception of spiritual direction or guidance in support of their work in this area
Contact: Frank Moncher, PhD. Frank.Moncher@arlingtondiocese.org