Community-Based, Distance-Learning CPE Program Flyer
Student Application for Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)
Meet Your CPE Supervisor and Educator – Rev. Dr. Ben Hayden
Ben Hayden serves as a Staff Chaplain for The University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City, Kansas. Ben has served as a chaplain for over twenty years. He completed 19 CPE units in Kansas City, Missouri, with practical experience in hospice, community hospital, and a large trauma center. He also serves as a Reserve Air Force Chaplain for over 22 years. Ben is a Clinical Pastoral Educator through Clinical Pastoral Education International (CPEI). He has supervised over 40 students from across the country. Through his leadership, two students have become Board Certified, and 1 student has been recognized by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission for Outstanding Graduate and Distinguished Alumni 2025. When Ben is not at the hospital and teaching CPE, he enjoys golf, hiking, and playing with his two adopted dogs. The exciting thing about teaching CPE is when students come alive and deepen their belief in their pastoral graces.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is meant by distance education and CPE?
Students are offered CPE training through distance education in an online format. There are three main elements: small group interaction with one’s peers and supervisor-educator, online learning modules and an internship.
Is this Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) program accredited?
Yes, this CPE training program is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
How long does it take to complete a course?
Most courses are scheduled for 12-week terms. A typical week requires students to meet with their supervisor-educator and peer group approximately 3-4 hours per week hours in an online format.
Will I receive a certificate after completion?
Students are awarded a certificate at the end of each course. A final certificate of completion is awarded once the student completes all learning modules and internship hours for the program they are enrolled in.
What should I expect when taking a unit of online, distance education CPE?
Awareness: CPE provides segues to heighten one’s awareness. It is in the crucible of CPE where what has been unconscious becomes conscious. Like the image of an iceberg, much is below the surface that is unprocessed. The experience of CPE provides an opportunity to look within through weekly reflection papers, verbatims, Individual time with the supervisor, and process with the group. Each student will be challenged through the clinical methods, reading, and interactions with their peers. Being and becoming aware is necessary but without action on the awareness, growth is limited.
Vulnerability: Is derived from the Latin word vulnus which means “wound.” The clinical method of interpersonal relationships (IPR) allows time and space for each student to share what is implicit, and to make it explicit. It is during this dedicated time that students can share their wounds for support, clarification, and confrontation. This shared time allows each student to cease time to share struggles, doubts, joys, concerns, and challenges. This clinical method allows students to be vulnerable with each other in ways that are familiar to those in their care.
Critical Reflection: In ministry, it is easy to act on autopilot, not being attuned to the internal struggle, feelings, and emotions. Reflection in CPE allows each student to hit the pause button and look at motivations and possible habits that are hidden beneath the surface. Each minister is hooked by their own story and CPE allows time to reflect without judgment to see if changes need to occur. Reflection occurs through the clinical environment, interpersonal relationships, and within the Self. It is from these areas of CPE that reflection will present growth opportunities.
What if I have more questions or need to contact Dr. Ben Hayden?
Print out the Community-Based, Distance-Learning CPE Program Flyer Visit www.LivedExperienceLife.com and click on the Contact link at the bottom of the website to send him an email.