The Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church Institute of Theology (EELK UI) and the Baltic Methodist Theological Seminary (BMTS) invite you to participate in the Church Family Counselor Continuing Education Program.

We welcome clergy, pastoral caregivers, family ministry workers, and others who support families in their work to join this program organized by EELK UI and BMTS.

Contact learning dates:

  • February: 19–21, 2026
  • March: 26–28, 2026
  • May: 21–23, 2026
  • October: 01–03, 2026
  • November: 05–07, 2026

Classes will take place on-site at EELK UI and BMTS facilities in Tallinn.

Topics covered:

  • Foundations and ethics of church family counseling
  • Theories of pastoral care, couple, and family therapy
  • Analysis and dynamics of family and couple relationships
  • Safety and dynamics of the counseling process
  • Boundaries of the counselor’s work, self-care, and spiritual growth

Upon completion, participants will:

  • Understand ethical principles and responsibilities of church family counseling and apply them in practice
  • Analyze family and couple dynamics and counseling process stages
  • Apply pastoral care and family therapy principles in practical cases
  • Create a safe counseling environment and use appropriate communication and intervention techniques
  • Know their work boundaries and apply principles of self-care and spiritual development

Trainers include:
Naatan Haamer (clergyman, family counselor, supervisor), Pia Ruotsala (clergyman, couple/family/trauma therapist, international trainer, supervisor), Lii Lilleoja (MA in pedagogy, family therapist), Maire Latvala (family counselor, theologian, PhD), Meeli Tankler (psychologist, theologian, PhD).

Methods: lectures, seminars, group work, role exercises, practice, supervision, independent written assignments, and a final paper.

Requirements: higher education in theology, psychology, medicine, education, or social sciences, and a recommendation from a congregation pastor.

Fee: €1125 (installments possible; payment schedule arranged individually).

Registration by January 24, 2026: send documents to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by post to Pühavaimu 6, Tallinn 10123, Kerstin Kask / Church Family Counselor Training:

  • Short CV
  • Motivation letter explaining your interest and describing opportunities for practical counseling during training
  • Copy of higher education diploma with transcript
  • Pastor’s recommendation

The training group will be formed based on motivation letters and submitted documents. Interviews may be conducted if necessary.

ADMISSIONS