This book explores ways to open therapy to the creative and healing po ssibilities in people's spiritual and religious experience, while coun tering ways it can do harm. Through moving case examples, the authors demonstrate how spiritual experiences may color and illuminate the sto ries told in therapy, the language and metaphors used, and the meaning s brought to key relationships and events. A framework is presented to help therapists listen and respond when spiritual or religious themes are invoked; ask appropriate questions about beliefs, practices, and communities; and work collaboratively to identify personally meaningfu l resources for change. Ideal for all clinicians, regardless of religi ous, spiritual, or theoretical orientation, the book emphasizes the ne ed to honor the language, ideas, and traditions that each individual b rings to the therapeutic setting.

This volume guides therapists and students in exploring the creative and healing possibilities in people's spiritual and religious experience, while countering ways it can do harm. The authors integrate ideas from a range of therapeutic perspectives--as well as wisdom gleaned from over 20 years of work in the field--to help therapists listen and respond when spiritual or religious themes are invoked; ask appropriate questions about beliefs, practices, and communities; and work collaboratively to identify personally meaningful resources for change. Applications are discussed for a wide variety of clinical situations, including helping people resolve relationship problems, manage psychiatric symptoms, and cope with medical illness. Key Features: * Filled with evocative personal accounts and therapeutic dialogues. * Religion and spirituality are the subjects of increased interest across the full range of mental health fields. * Provides concrete guidance on dealing with issues that are challenging for many therapists. * Applicable to a wide range of religions and belief systems.