Cultural & Religious Considerations When Addressing Depression and Suicidality

Guidance for Behavioral Health Clinicians and Faith-Based Leaders
Social Justice and Mental Health

Home Study Course

Course Objectives

Learn how cultural and religious beliefs shape experiences of depression and suicide An interfaith, multicultural panel offers insight and strategies to address stigma and support individuals with compassion and sensitivity.

  • Recognize how cultural and religious beliefs shape perceptions of depression and suicide, including stigma and help-seeking behaviors.

  • Develop culturally responsive and faith-sensitive communication strategies to discuss mental health concerns with individuals and communities.

  • Implement practical, respectful approaches to intervention and referral while honoring cultural and spiritual values.

  • Learn to establish partnerships among clinical and religious providers to reduce suicide risk and foster behavioral health.

Panelists

Jennifer Toof, PhD, LPC, NCC

Trauma Specialist, Licensed Professional Counselor

Dr. Jennifer Toof is a Licensed Professional Counselor, owner of Trauma Informed Counseling & Consulting, and former CGRC Employee of the Year. Her PhD is in International Psychology with a concentration in trauma services. She is a Certified Trauma Therapist whose expertise includes working with clients who have experienced traumatic and/or depressive symptoms following childbirth. She has presented on this topic for the American Psychological Association and for The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is a prolific presenter, has been published in peer-reviewed journals, and is highly active in a number of local, national, and international advocacy efforts. traumainformedllc.com

Rachel Dunlap, LSW

Licensed Social Worker & Campus Minister

Rachel Dunlap holds a MSW and a Master of Theology and Ministry from Boston College. She provides trauma-informed spiritual care as Campus Minister at Neumann University, where she supports the faith journeys and well-being of college students. Rachel has worked as an outpatient therapist for Catholic Charities and as an inpatient social worker at McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA. Her ministerial work includes accompanying individuals without housing, those in the criminal justice system, and first-generation college students. She is passionate about destigmatizing mental health care in faith communities. [email protected]

Phaedra D. Blocker, D.Min.

Professor, Clergy, Spiritual Director & Consultant

The Reverend Dr. Phaedra Blocker is a preacher, educator, spiritual director, and consultant with decades of experience in pastoral ministry and leadership development. Dr. Blocker specializes in helping clergy and congregations move toward wholeness and become agents of shalom in the world. She heads the Center for Clergy & Congregational Wellness which fosters wellness in faith leaders, their ministries and communities. She is Affiliate Professor in Leadership & Formation at Palmer Theological Seminary where she teaches in the Seminary’s Masters and Doctoral programs, as well as in Eastern University's Marriage and Family Therapy Doctoral program. clergyandcongregations.org

Faarah Misbah, LAMFT

Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Faarah Misbah is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma, relational healing, and culturally responsive care. Through her practice, she integrates systems thinking, narrative approaches, and a deep respect for religious and cultural identity to support individuals and families navigating complex mental health challenges. Faarah collaborates with clergy in reducing stigma and misinformation regarding mental health issues and is passionate about bridging clinical practice and faith-based values to promote holistic healing in diverse communities. healingwithfaarah.com

Andrew Sklarz, MSW

Rabbi, Therapist, Pastoral Counselor

Rabbi Sklarz brings over 30 years of rabbinic experience and currently serves at Temple Judea, a Reform Congregation in Bucks County. His education includes ordination and an honorary Ph.D. from the Hebrew Union College, and advanced degrees in social work, school psychology and Hebrew literature studies. Rabbi Sklarz is also a therapist and pastoral counselor in private practice. He has been surviving and thriving with Leukemia for more than twenty years and specializes in supporting adolescents, adults and families in crisis and those experiencing serious illness. andrewsklarzmsw.com

Andrew Sklarz, MSW

Rabbi, Therapist, Pastoral Counselor

Rabbi Sklarz brings over 30 years of rabbinic experience and currently serves at Temple Judea, a Reform Congregation in Bucks County. His education includes ordination and an honorary Ph.D. from the Hebrew Union College, and advanced degrees in social work, school psychology and Hebrew literature studies. Rabbi Sklarz is also a therapist and pastoral counselor in private practice. He has been surviving and thriving with Leukemia for more than twenty years and specializes in supporting adolescents, adults and families in crisis and those experiencing serious illness. andrewsklarzmsw.com

Who will benefit?

Intended for Psychologists, Social Workers, Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, Faith-Based Leaders, Spiritual Directors, Graduate Students, and others who support the behavioral and spiritual well-being of individuals and families.