Rabbi Dr. David J. Zucker and Rev. T. Patrick Bradley on a safe place for us

Peer Support/Consultation Group: A Practical Response

The Rev. A. Meigs Ross, Director of the Center for Clinical Pastoral Education at The HealthCare Chaplaincy, NYC, presents a compelling “Case for Peer Consultation Groups” (PlainViews Vol. 3, No. 20, November 15, 2006).

Chaplain Ross framed her article in terms of her work as a supervisor working with supervisors. We agree with Ross’s conclusions, and here we offer our practical experience over a number of years in a Chaplains/Pastoral Caregivers Peer Support Group.

Ross suggests “growth in ministry is supported by honing the skills of giving and receiving clear feedback and support in a peer group context.”

She explains that for several years she has worked “closely with a group of supervisory peers . . . receiving ongoing consultation. . . They have pointed out my foibles and inconsistencies at critical moments in my supervisory and professional life. . . They have provided support out of their care for me, and their knowledge and experience of who I am.”

Like Ross, several years ago we recognized the need for an ongoing “Peer Support/Consultation Group.” We formed just such an entity that draws its membership from southern Wyoming and north-central Colorado. We term ourselves the WY-CO Peer Support/Consultation Group.

Our cluster of chaplains purposely is diverse. Membership includes Roman Catholic (female and male), Jewish, Methodist (female and male), Episcopalian, UCC, and Baptist (female and male) members. Members includes Directors of Pastoral/Spiritual Care, Hospital, Long Term Care, Hospice, Congregational, VA, Administration/Teaching, Pain Assessment and Management.

We have certified and non-certified chaplains, full time, part time, and PRN.

We strive to avoid sharing the same religious judicatory. We do not allow coworkers from the same institution, nor do we allow a situation where someone is actively supervising/being supervised by someone else in the group.

Geographical separation is an important feature. We are not in competition for the same economic dollars. This means we can be honest and direct with each other.

We meet in a neutral facility, where none of us serves professionally. Consequently, we are not available for direct call. We have learned the importance of psychologically leaving one’s own campus.

The Peer Group meeting always is a stand-alone event.

Our experience over ten years is that personal chemistry is important. You have to “fit in” with the group; and they with you. (If you don’t “fit”, find a new group.) The presence of both men and women is essential. It prevents male/female bashing; men and women see things differently. Diversity in age is important. Not only is there a mentoring aspect, but the younger and the more mature see and approach life issues differently providing valuable exchange and dialogue.

The group can be educational (i.e. didactics) but this is not its primary purpose. We each regularly present a verbatim. More importantly, we provide peer support and consultation on professional and personal matters.

Over the years, we have grown in friendship. More important, we all have learned that this is a safe place to vent and lament, grow and groan. Depending on the moment, we serve each other as a rod to prod, or a staff upon which to lean and draw comfort. As we are there for each other, so we know that even when we walk in deep darkness others are there for us, and so we do not fear.

Do you have thoughts about education & research you’d like to share with your colleagues? Send an e-mail to info@PlainViews.org.