In recent years, I’ve encountered an increasing number of clients grappling with concerns related to meaning, a sense of being lost, existential dread, hopelessness about the state of the world, and disconnection from both others and the natural world. Regardless of our background or beliefs, many of us struggle to make sense of the world around us.
Although practices like meditation and yoga have become more mainstream, and even with the growing media attention on the potential healing benefits of psychedelics, the role of spirituality in therapy is often overlooked by both clients and therapists alike. However, integrating spirituality into therapy is crucial, as it can offer profound insights, foster deeper connections, and provide a sense of purpose and meaning. Let’s look at some common myths around spirituality and therapy that keep this vital component of healing in the shadows.
The Importance of Integration of Spirituality into Therapy
Unfortunately, both clients and therapists often overlook spirituality in therapy due to misconceptions or because they feel that they can’t talk about it. Clinicians can sometimes get caught only focusing on symptom mitigation, addressing maladaptive coping strategies, and meeting goals. By incorporating spirituality in the initial intake and therapy sessions, mental health professionals can enhance the therapeutic process, providing care that addresses biological and psychological factors and nurtures the spiritual dimensions of their client’s lives.
To learn more about spirituality as an important component of holistic approach to healing, check out my previous blog on spirituality and well-being.
Common Misconceptions about Spirituality
Addressing misconceptions about spirituality in the therapy setting is crucial for fostering an open and inclusive environment where all aspects of a person’s well-being can be supported.
Spirituality Equals Religion
Many people confuse spirituality with religion, but while religion involves specific practices, rituals, and beliefs about God or gods, spirituality is broader and more personal. It can include a sense of connection to something greater than oneself, seeking meaning and purpose in life, or a belief in the interconnectedness of all life.
Only Religious People Are Spiritual
A common assumption is that spirituality is only relevant to those who adhere to a religious faith. However, many people who identify as agnostic or atheist also engage in spiritual practices and hold spiritual beliefs, such as the importance of connection to nature or the human spirit.
Spirituality is About Escapism
People may think that spirituality involves avoiding reality or escaping life’s challenges. In truth, spirituality often encourages facing and understanding life’s difficulties with greater depth and perspective.
Common Misconceptions about Spirituality in Therapy
Spirituality Has No Place in Evidence-Based Practice
Some may believe that because spirituality often involves intangible elements, it doesn’t belong in the empirically grounded field of psychotherapy. However, research has shown that integrating spiritual considerations can enhance therapeutic outcomes and patient satisfaction, especially for those who hold these values dearly.
Discussing Spirituality Is ‘Unprofessional or Inappropriate’
Therapists sometimes avoid discussing spirituality for fear of crossing professional boundaries. However, addressing spirituality can be highly relevant to client care when approached respectfully and ethically. Ideally, therapists should be open to discussing spirituality if it is important to the client’s experience and well-being.
‘One Approach Fits All’
Certain spiritual practices can be assumed to benefit everyone. In reality, spirituality is highly individual, and what works for one person may not suit another. Therapists need to tailor their approach to fit each client’s unique spiritual orientation and needs.
Spirituality Is Only About Positive Aspects and Healing
While spirituality often contributes to healing and positive outcomes, it can also involve wrestling with profound questions about suffering, injustice, and existential challenges. Therapy should accommodate spirituality’s complex role, recognizing that it can involve moral injury, doubt, struggle, and crisis.
Final Thoughts
Integrating spirituality into therapy is not just an optional add-on but can be an important component of holistic mental health care. Therapists can better support their clients’ journeys toward healing and wholeness by dispelling common misconceptions and creating a space where spirituality is acknowledged and respected. Addressing the spiritual dimension allows for a deeper exploration of meaning, purpose, and connection, enriching the therapeutic process and ultimately leading to more profound and lasting change. As we continue to evolve our understanding of mental health, it’s essential to recognize the value of spirituality in fostering comprehensive well-being.
Interested in learning more about spirituality, and all that it entails? The Catalyst Center has a number of therapists that are passionate about incorporating
About the Author
Sarah Long, PsyD, LCP, CEDS
Dr. Sarah Long is a gifted psychologist with 16+ years of experience helping people to heal from the impacts of traumatic events and recover from eating disorders. Dr. Long leads the Eating Disorder team at Catalyst, provides EMDR, Psychedelic Assisted Therapy. Dr. Long also uses her expertise in Collaborative Therapeutic Assessment to evaluate complex Eating Disorder cases and provide guidance for treatment.
Interested in Learning More?
If you are interested in learning more about incorporating spirituality into therapy or Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy, our specialized team is here to help. Call 720-675-7123 or contact us below.
