Question

Describe the ethical implications of implementing religion or spirituality into therapy. Consider topics such as:

Competence

Multiple relationships

Imposing religious values in therapy

Informed consent

Answer 1

Although implementing religion or spirituality into therapy can be beneficial, it needs to be considered carefully, especially when a therapist is new to using them. A level of competence is required for all psychologists to understand how spirituality and religious faith are important to them personally. Specific training programs should be available for psychologists looking into developing practices that include religious and spiritual therapies. Psychologists need to be cautious about their personal ideas about religion and the possibility of countertransference problems. This can potentially lead to the formation of multiple relationships in the therapeutic setting, which psychologists must aim to prevent. They also need to guide their clients to healthy views of religion in their lives, without imposing religious values and practices, after having obtained informed consent from them.