Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast Working with Spiritual Struggles in Psychotherapy
19 snips
Feb 4, 2022 In this discussion, clinical psychologists Kenneth I. Pargament and Julie J. Exline, along with UC Irvine resident Kevin Ing, dive into the complexities of spiritual struggles within psychotherapy. They explore how religion and spirituality intersect with mental health, emphasizing the importance of understanding clients' beliefs. Key topics include the emotional impact of spiritual doubt, the necessity of psychological safety, and how early attachments shape spiritual perceptions. The conversation highlights thoughtful engagement in therapy as vital for healing.
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Defining Spiritual Struggles
- Spiritual struggles involve conflicts or tensions related to religion and spirituality, experienced by both religious and non-religious people.
- These include anger at God, doubts, interpersonal conflicts around religion, moral struggles, and ultimate meaning struggles.
Include Broader Spirituality in Therapy
- Therapists should acknowledge that spirituality broadly includes what people hold sacred, not just traditional religion.
- This helps in addressing spiritual issues for clients who are often religious, even if therapists are not.
Address Therapist Training Gaps
- Many therapists lack training in religion and spirituality, which leads to discomfort or avoidance when topics arise.
- Practitioners should seek to develop competence and comfort rather than sidestepping spiritual issues.
