Theistic Psychotherapy and the God Image

Keywords

theistic psychotherapy, God image, therapy, spirituality

Abstract

Assessing and working with issues of God image in therapy are often an essential part of successful treatment. God image development is a complex process that may include influences from family, peers, culture, gender, age, religious theology and tradition. From a theistic perspective, individuals’ actual relationship with God can have the greatest impact on God image development. According to this perspec- tive, it is important that therapists help clients explore their image of God and the ways it impacts their spirituality and presenting concerns. Encouraging clients to engage in spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, scripture study, and spiritual reflection can help them create a more genuine relationship with God, and promotes a healthier, more mature God image.

Original Publication Citation

O’Grady, K. A., & Richards, P. S. (2007). God image and theistic psychotherapy. Journal of Spirituality and Mental Health, 9, 183-209.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2007

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/6662

Publisher

Journal of Spirituality and Mental Health

Language

English

College

David O. McKay School of Education

Department

Counseling Psychology and Special Education

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

Link to Full Text

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