Clergy and faith leaders usually serve as the first line of support for individuals and families experiencing emotional distress, relationship strain, grief and crisis.  In the Philippines where access to licensed mental health professionals is severely limited, this is often the case. 

It is reported that at least one in ten Filipinos suffers from some sort of mental illness. 

Even those who profess to have faith are not immune to depression, anxiety, and suicide-related concerns. As these issues continue to rise, it is urgent that early community-based intervention is implemented. Clergy are frequently called upon to respond to complex psychosocial issues without formal preparation in mental health boundaries, risk recognition, or referral pathways –  sometimes resulting in more harm than good.

ERC’s Mentora For Clergy Coaching Program addresses this gap by equipping pastors and ministry leaders with evidence-informed coaching skills, ethical safeguards, and collaborative referral practices—enhancing, rather than replacing, clinical care.  Designed as holistic, trauma-informed and rooted in Filipino psychology, Mentora for Clergy seeks to strengthen clergy effectiveness within appropriate non-clinical bounds. The program fully supports the country’s national mental health goals while honoring the centrality of faith in Filipino life.