The Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE) accredits CPE training and trainers. To familiarize oneself with CPE, the Frequently Asked Questions page on the ACPE website can be helpful.
To locate accredited CPE programs, go to the ACPE’s online directory at https://profile.acpe.edu/accreditedcpedirectory.
CPE programs generally have a limited number of slots per term.
Residency CPE Programs
Catholic priests are encouraged to apply to residency CPE programs, some of which provide a stipend for participants.
Once a priest completes 4 units of CPE training in a residency program, he can be hired directly by a VAMC to fill a vacancy. The VA Chief Chaplain may use a direct hire process under the VA personnel classification of Catholic priests as Hybrid Title 38.
In addition, the VA Chief Chaplains may hire eligible priests who are in a VA CPE Residency program, but have not yet fully completed their residency. The position will be held for them until the completion of their training.
