What responsibility defines a Pastoral Counselor under Clery Act guidelines?

A Pastoral Counselor is defined under Clery Act guidelines as someone who provides confidential counseling services as recognized by a religious order. This definition acknowledges the unique role that pastoral counselors play in offering support and guidance to individuals, particularly within a faith-based context. Their counseling is typically characterized by a spiritual or religious element, which distinguishes it from other types of counseling offered on campus.

Confidentiality is a crucial aspect of pastoral counseling, as individuals seeking help may feel more comfortable discussing personal issues in a faith-based environment where trust and discretion are prioritized. The Clery Act recognizes the importance of these services in creating a supportive environment for students, allowing them to seek help without fear of their information being disclosed.

The other options, while they involve supportive roles, do not align with the specific responsibilities outlined for pastoral counselors under the Clery Act. Academic advising, mental health workshops, and supervising other counselors do not carry the same emphasis on the religious or confidential nature of counseling that is fundamental to the role of a Pastoral Counselor.