Spiritualy Intergrated Psychotherapy
Kenneth I. Pargament defines Spiritually Integrated Psychotherapy as a therapeutic approach based on findings in psychotherapy research and the psychology of religion. Essentially, it is the practice of purposefully assessing clients’ spiritual/religious belief systems and worldviews in the context of psychotherapy, while integrating spiritually oriented interventions. A spiritually integrated approach can work with clients from any religion or spiritual orientation. They can use their connection to spirit, whether that means connecting to a traditional view of “god,” “the universe” or another higher power they believe in—to help them grow and heal. This approach allows clients from all religions or forms of spirituality to access those resources that will reduce emotional pain and trauma. The therapist’s therapeutic perspective honors the clients’ spiritual perspectives to assess problems and find solutions. It encourages them to draw on all clinical and spiritual resources to achieve an integrated sense of their true selves expressed in a happy fulfilled life.