Diocese of Phoenix opens education center to support mental health ministry

The Diocese of Phoenix opened its education center with a mental health ministry in collaboration with North Dakota’s University of Mary.

Bishop John Dolan of Phoenix, Auxiliary Bishop Eduardo Nevares, and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego took part in a Sept. 9 ribbon‑cutting ceremony marking the opening.

“The people formed here will carry what they learned beyond these walls and into their parishes, their families and communities; into the lives of those who need their care, whether through priestly ministry or mental health services,” Dolan said at the event.

“This work is ultimately about accompanying people and helping them recognize they are cherished, made in God’s image and likeness — and that can never be annulled — and they are not alone,” he said.

The 3,132-square-foot education center will support both Nazareth Seminary and the Photina Center for Catholic Counseling. The center will offer in‑person courses for the University of Mary’s Catholic anthropology certificate , limited master’s‑level counseling courses, and professional development resources.

The Photina Center will support the work of the mental health ministry, including its program to place counselors in…