Stepping carefully on sacred ground: religion and spirituality in psychotherapy

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article explores the significance of religious/spiritual approaches to existential issues in psychotherapy in Norway, with its secular, Western-European society. A content analysis of eight semi-structured interviews with psychologists who are experienced in the intersection of psychotherapy and religion/spirituality confirms the perceived therapeutic benefit of addressing religion/spirituality. Participants reported “sacred moments” in therapy and the significance of religion/spirituality for their therapeutic identities. Religious/spiritual self-disclosure and ethical borders emerged as challenging topics. As core competencies, the interviewees named existential sensitivity, self-reflection, and self-disclosure management. The article discusses what is needed to create safe spaces for existential/religious/existential issues in secular psychotherapy.