Dr. Todd Bates, professor of philosophy at California Baptist University, speaks at the “The Struggle is Real” conference on March 22.

Riverside, Calif. (March 22, 2018) – California Baptist University is hosting “The Struggle is Real” conference, a three-day event, aimed at addressing how mental health practitioners and church leaders can assist with mental health issues. The event is co-sponsored by the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) and runs from March 22-24.

More than 300 pastors, lay counselors, mental health professionals and students registered for the event.  

Dr. Jared Pingleton, vice president of professional development with AACC, said he hopes the conference will embolden the church body to address the complex mental health dilemma.

“The goal of the summit is to educate, encourage, equip and empower the church regarding their mental and relational health needs,” Pingleton said.  

Speakers at the conference will feature a mix of mental health professionals and pastors. Additionally, various professors from CBU will be presenting. The conference also features workshops on topics ranging from stress and anxiety to church leadership and counseling.

We want to offer our insights on counseling from a Christian worldview, said Dr. Joshua Knabb, associate professor of psychology at CBU.

“CBU is excited and honored to be contributing to this important discussion on ways that we can equip churches to respond with Christ’s love to people struggling with emotional and psychological suffering in the church,” Knabb said.