This new edited collection explores the intersection of spiritual direction and counselling/psychotherapy, and the relationship between the two. Citing the influencing effect prayer and counselling have had on each other, the contributors offer insight into the similarities and differences of spiritual direction and counselling, and of what the disciplines have to learn from each other.
Advocating the importance of addressing the spiritual dimension of care in areas such as mental health and social care, this book promotes a synthesis of pastoral guidance and psychological counselling. The chapters offer insight to the healing role spirituality and prayer can play when counselling for trauma, sexual abuse or loss of a loved one. Whether discussing training counsellors to be spiritually literate, or exploring how spiritual accompaniers can take a psychologically-informed approach, all the contributors bring their extensive experience to bear working with spiritual and psychological issues.
Introduction - Peter Madsen Gubi.
1. Exploring Discernment - Lynette Harborne.
2. Using Prayer in Counselling and Spiritual Accompaniment - Peter Madsen Gubi.
3. Creative Methods in Spiritual Exploration: Inviting the Sublime into the Room - Phil Goss.
4. Contemplative Approaches to Training Spiritually Literate Counsellors - R. Jane Williams.
5. The Use of Reflexive Practice Groups in Spiritual Development - Peter Madsen Gubi.
6. Grieving for Myself: The Silence and Spirituality of Personal Loss - Ruth Bridges.
7. Spirituality and Sexual Abuse - Valda Swinton.
8. Trauma and Spiritual Growth - Nikki Kiyimba.
9. Counsellors and Religious Pastoral Carers in Dialogue - William West.
'There is today a growing interest in the interface between counselling, psychotherapy, and spiritual accompaniment. What is the way forward if it becomes apparent that a client, knowing that the counsellor is a person of faith, is hoping to receive some spiritual input also?
In a collection of excellent essays some pertinent questions in this area are explored and analysed. A book to be read by all who are interested in the spiritual dimension of professional counselling.'
- Elizabeth Ruth Obbard, Carmelite nun, author and spiritual director
'As a psychotherapist I am often asked, "Does therapy work?" I reply that it keeps people alive. The same question can be asked about spiritual direction or spiritual accompaniment. The answer is the same. It keeps people alive. Gubi's work, and that of his fellow writers, reminds us of the vital overlaps between psyche, spirit, mind, body, and emotions, united in a life-giving task. This book provokes and enlivens by bringing together therapeutic and spiritual traditions in a creative dialogue.'
- Alistair Ross, Director of Psychodynamic Studies, University of Oxford
