Spirituality and the Healthy Mind

Spirituality has emerged as a prominent theme in contemporary culture. It is seen in issues as diverse as Eastern philosophies, and religious awakenings; its psychological impact is apparent in alternative medicine, Alcoholics Anonymous, and meditation. But the mental health profession has generally ignored these issues, focusing on specific target symptoms, from anxiety to heavy drinking. This raises an important question: Can the spiritual and the professional, two perspectives that seem different, be reconciled? This book is designed to provide an answer to this question. It draws on recent findings in psychology, neuroscience, and innovative therapies, to understand how people in America and worldwide express their spiritual needs. The book draws on clinical experience and recent research studies, including the author's work over thirty years, to create a vivid understanding of how mental health treatment can be made more effective by giving meaning to people's lives.