Welcome to Our CEC Training Program

The Certified Educator Program (CEC) is designed for individuals who aspire to train and supervise others in Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE). Through rigorous academic and clinical training, participants develop the skills to lead accredited programs that integrate theological and behavioral science perspectives. Applicants should be prepared to attend in-person meetings in Central and Western New York. Our program follows the standards set by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE), ensuring high-quality preparation for clinical educators.

About Our CEC Program

    • Individualized supervision under a certified ACPE Educator.

    • Comprehensive training in teaching methods, program management, and theological integration.

    • Opportunities to lead CPE units under supervision.

    • Participation in peer group seminars and competency reviews.

    • Advanced pastoral and clinical supervisory skills.

    • A deeper integration of theological reflection and behavioral sciences.

    • The ability to design and implement CPE programs that meet ACPE standards.

    • Skills to mentor and evaluate CPE students effectively.

    • Preparation for certification as an ACPE Educator.

    • Clergy, faith community leaders, religious community leaders, lay ministers, spiritual caregivers, and spiritual directors looking to specialize in spiritual care education.

    • Experienced CPE graduates passionate about mentoring and training future support faith leaders,chaplains and spiritual care providers.

    • Those seeking a recognized certification in clinical pastoral education (CPE).

    • Lead CPE programs in hospitals, seminaries, or community organizations.

    • Mentor and supervise CPE students as certified ACPE Educators.

    • Develop innovative spiritual care initiatives.

    • Contribute to academic research in spiritual care and education.

heart in hand

Ongoing clinical placement sites for Level I / II CPE students

Admissions Competencies Assessment Form
Certified Educator Program Application

Upcoming Program Information

Applications are closed

The Certified Educator Program (CEC) at Crossroads of Caring provides a robust and personalized training experience. Tuition is $2,500 per year, and Crossroads of Caring covers the candidate’s ACPE annual fee of $850 as part of its commitment to supporting future educators. Program hours are tailored to each candidate and negotiated with the ACPE Training Educator, ensuring flexibility while meeting the rigorous standards of the program. This structure fosters an environment of professional growth and preparation for a career as a Certified ACPE Educator.

Candidates are accepted on a rolling basis, with start dates determined in consultation with the ACPE Training Educator. A complete application includes completion of BOTH the Admissions Competency Acceptance Form and the Certified Educator application form with narrative components submitted. Due to the intensive time commitment and rigorous nature of the program, only a select number of candidates are admitted at a time. This approach ensures high-quality training and personalized supervision, enabling participants to meet the demands of becoming an ACPE Certified Educator.

For more information please contact our office.

Additional CEC Program Information

  • The Certified Educator Program trains clinical pastoral educators who integrate theology and behavioral sciences to provide innovative and accredited spiritual care education. The program combines hands-on experience, theological inquiry, and rigorous academic study.

  • To apply for the Certified Educator Program, prospective candidates must meet the following criteria:

    • Submit a completed Application for Certified Educator Programs from ACPE.edu.

    • Complete the Admissions Competencies Assessment form.

    • Hold a Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) or its equivalent.

    • Possess a graduate theological degree or its equivalent.

    • Be ordained or commissioned to function as a spiritual care provider by an appropriate religious/spiritual authority, as determined by ACPE.

    • Provide an endorsement or statement of accountability from an appropriate religious/spiritual authority, as determined by ACPE.

    • Successfully complete a minimum of four units of Level I/Level II ACPE Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE).

    • Demonstrate spiritual care and conceptual competence through the attainment of Level I and Level II outcomes.

    • Undergo an evaluation of the competencies required for admission to a Certified Educator Program.

  • As a participant in the Certified Educator Program (CEC), you will have the following responsibilities:

    • Peer Group attendance and educational hours will be negotiated with your ACPE Training Educator and CEC peer group to meet program requirements.

    • Provide direct spiritual care to patients, families, and staff members at your clinical employment site.

    • Compile and report spiritual care data for department records, reports, and research, as applicable.

    • Actively participate in planning and implementing administrative and educational duties at Crossroads of Caring, as appropriate.

    • Engage fully in learning activities (our CPE Level I/II Hybrid Program, includes both in-person and online educational sessions), including:

      • Attending, observing, participating in, or facilitating seminars and group learning sessions.

      • Participating in individual supervision sessions and personal reflection.

      • Attending curricular events for CPE interns and Certified Educator Program activities.

      • Participating in peer group meetings, the Northeast Area Community of Practice Conferences, and ACPE national conference events for CEC’s.

    This comprehensive involvement ensures that you gain the practical, administrative, and supervisory experience required to become a certified ACPE Educator.

  • The key elements of a Certified Educator Program include:

    • Supervised Experience: Hands-on practice in supervising CPE students, with guidance from a certified ACPE Educator.

    • Competency Development: Training focused on developing skills in the ACPE Competencies, including program management, evaluation, and supervisory techniques.

    • Peer Group Work: Regular seminars and discussions with peers to share experiences and foster mutual learning.

    • Spiritual Reflection on Beliefs and Values: Opportunities to integrate spiritual and/or theological perspectives with clinical practice and encounters.

    • Individual Learning Goals: Personalized training plans that address the candidate's strengths and growth areas.

    • Evaluation Processes: Periodic reviews to assess progress in meeting CEC Competencies.

    • Completion of Certification Requirements: Guidance in preparing materials and demonstrating readiness for certification by the ACPE Certification Commission.

  • For more comprehensive details about the ACPE Educator Certification process, including program requirements, competencies, and certification steps, please visit the ACPE website’s Certified Educator Program page. This resource is an excellent guide for understanding the journey to becoming a certified ACPE Educator.