Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute

Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute (PPI) exists to enhance the health of individuals, families, and communities through an interfaith ministry of counseling and education that integrates the resources of faith and the behavioral sciences.

The Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute (PPI) began in 1964 as a non-profit organization committed to training clergy in the ministry of pastoral counseling. In the nearly 60 years since its founding, a great deal has changed in both ministry and behavioral health treatment, but PPI's mission remains the same. It is a strong advocate and leader in the integration of spirituality across behavioral health services. PPI's medical, licensed professional counseling, licensed clinical social work, and clergy professional education build a stronger understanding of holistic care essential to healthcare and community support at large. PPI is Southwestern Pennsylvania's oldest interfaith counseling, education, and resource center committed to treating the whole person, honoring their faith, and recognizing the power of both in coping, healing, and living life.

PPI's services are multi-faceted. Counseling service provides care by the hour to hundreds of families and individuals per month. The therapists are unique in their experience and understanding of faith-informed, spiritually integrated supports for individuals and families seeking such expertise in their behavioral health care. The counseling program is open to all and can include as little or as much as one's faith desires. PPI works with medical insurance companies and provides Client Aid for those who qualify. PPI's own active professionals develop seminars to help educate religious leaders to better serve and understand their communities. Accredited Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) is provided for chaplains and others in training for which scholarships are available. Spiritual Direction is a time-honored service that directly impacts a broad spectrum of clients, from first responders to individuals and families seeking consolation, internal strength, and peace using this sacred practice. PPI utilizes these approaches to fulfil its mission to enhance the health of individuals, families, and communities.

Testimonials

"Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute is a wonderful place. Your faith is respected and can be utilized in the therapy process. Mr. Mike Robertson was my therapist. He was patient, kind, and had insight and helped me see things more clearly. I wish I could have continued my therapy at PPI but it was too far to travel. (I live in Ellwood City, Pa) Highly recommend for anyone....those with faith and for those who do not choose to include faith into the therapeutic process. " - Julie S.

"Highly recommended! PPI has great counselors to fill a variety of needs. I've never had any issues with billing or insurance. My therapist was REALLY smart and helpful. He also weaned me off counseling when I was feeling healthy and ready. The offices feel private and the staff is very professional. But what I should stress is the quality of the therapists, they are the best in the city. They also specialize in faith-based counseling, especially if that's what you are seeking. They have multiple locations for your convenience." - David B.