A Review of Exploring the Therapeutic Use of Spiritual Disciplines in Clinical Practice
A Review of Exploring the Therapeutic Use of Spiritual Disciplines in Clinical Practice
Audra K. Thompson
Liberty University
Summary The article explores the concept of incorporating spiritual practices in the clinical practice of counseling. One of the primary elements the article wishes professional counselors to consider is the idea that “the values and practices of religious clients deserve the same level of respect and sensitivity as any other ethno-cultural aspect of a client’s life” (Eck 266). In order to accomplish this, the author identifies the ethical, cultural, and professional practice parameters that all counselors should consider. Eck points out that many professionals receive training to better assist clients from diverse ethnic backgrounds, but very few incorporate any spiritual framework within sessions with a religious client. The research he analyzed indicates that between fifty and ninety percent of clients seen highly value their spiritual orientation, yet it seems that many counselors prefer to leave spirituality out of the sessions. There are several reasons he believes this may happen, but advocates strongly that proper training with regard to incorporating religious practices in the counseling session would help counselor competence in the area and provide a better framework for assisting religious clients. He also recommends proper assessment to determine if spiritual interventions would even benefit the client. In addition to discussing religious practices with the client, he also suggests the utilization of standardized measures. In addition to taking an assessment of the client’s spirituality, the article recommends that professionals be aware of their own level of spirituality and how those beliefs may affect any interaction with a client. There are many ways to incorporate spiritual interventions into practice, but deciding on the best practice depends on the client and on the
Audra K. Thompson
Liberty University
Summary The article explores the concept of incorporating spiritual practices in the clinical practice of counseling. One of the primary elements the article wishes professional counselors to consider is the idea that “the values and practices of religious clients deserve the same level of respect and sensitivity as any other ethno-cultural aspect of a client’s life” (Eck 266). In order to accomplish this, the author identifies the ethical, cultural, and professional practice parameters that all counselors should consider. Eck points out that many professionals receive training to better assist clients from diverse ethnic backgrounds, but very few incorporate any spiritual framework within sessions with a religious client. The research he analyzed indicates that between fifty and ninety percent of clients seen highly value their spiritual orientation, yet it seems that many counselors prefer to leave spirituality out of the sessions. There are several reasons he believes this may happen, but advocates strongly that proper training with regard to incorporating religious practices in the counseling session would help counselor competence in the area and provide a better framework for assisting religious clients. He also recommends proper assessment to determine if spiritual interventions would even benefit the client. In addition to discussing religious practices with the client, he also suggests the utilization of standardized measures. In addition to taking an assessment of the client’s spirituality, the article recommends that professionals be aware of their own level of spirituality and how those beliefs may affect any interaction with a client. There are many ways to incorporate spiritual interventions into practice, but deciding on the best practice depends on the client and on the
References: Eck, Brian E. (2002). An Exploration of the Therapeutic Use of Spiritual Disciplines in Clinical Practice. Journal of Psychology and Christianity, 21 (3), 266-280.