Cherotich, Stella2025-01-172025-01-172024-10Cherotich, S. (2024). Assessing The Factors Hindering Uptake of Counseling Services Among Clergy; A Case of The Africa Gospel Church in Nairobi County, Kenya. Daystar University, School of Applied Human Scienceshttps://repository.daystar.ac.ke/handle/123456789/5941MASTER OF ARTS in counseling PsychologyThis study investigated the factors hindering clergy members of the Africa Gospel Church in Nairobi County from utilizing counseling services for mental health issues, particularly anxiety and depression. Despite the high prevalence of these conditions among clergy, there remains a significant gap in the uptake of professional mental health support. The study was guided by the following objectives: assess the prevalence of anxiety and depression among Clergy members in the Africa Gospel Church within Nairobi County, determine uptake of counseling services among clergy members, establish factors hindering clergy members in the Africa Gospel Church- Kenya from utilizing counseling services, and determine the coping mechanisms used by clergy to deal with psychological problems. Using descriptive research design, the study employed census sampling technique. Primary data was gathered through quantitative method by use of structured questionnaires and interviews, focusing on demographic variables such as age, gender, and level of leadership as well as stigma associated with mental health, cost of counseling services, attitude towards counseling, lack of awareness of existence of services, and perceived inefficacy of counseling services as barriers to seeking professional counseling services. Additionally, the study highlights the role of religious and cultural beliefs in shaping attitudes towards mental health care. To analyze quantitative data, statistical packages for social sciences (SPSS) was employed. This study provides useful information about prevalence of anxiety and depression among clergy and the factors hindering them from seeking psychological counseling, as well as provide recommendations to the church stakeholders for possible inclusion in policy making so as to improve the mental health of clergy. The findings revealed that a significant proportion of clergy members experience anxiety and depression, with 65% reporting moderate to severe levels of these mental health conditions. Despite this, the uptake of counseling services remains low, with only 28% of clergy reporting seeking professional help. Factors hindering the utilization of counseling services include stigma, fear of judgment, limited awareness, and the belief that prayer alone suffices for mental health support. Coping mechanisms identified among the clergy include prayer, spiritual practices, and support from fellow clergy members. The study concludes that the mental health needs of clergy are critical yet often overlooked, with significant barriers to accessing professional counseling services. The study recommends that church leaders and policymakers in religious institutions prioritize mental health awareness among clergy by integrating mental health education and counseling services into their wellness programs. Additionally, there is a need for mental health training for clergy to reduce stigma and promote the acceptance of professional counseling services.enClergypastorshinderancescounseling services.Thesis