Handbook of Psychotherapy and Religious Diversity

Many religious people distrust the idea of psychotherapy because they fear mental health professionals will misunderstand and pathologize their beliefs. This book provides concrete guidance on how therapists can work effectively with clients from a variety of religious backgrounds. Each chapter is devoted to a different religious denomination and is written by an author who is both a mental health professional and an expert on the tradition described. The contributors provide information on the central beliefs and practices of the faith, describe how spiritual concerns may emerge in therapy, and offer guidelines for promoting trust and positive outcomes.