Spiritually integrated therapy (Associate Handbook)
Purpose
Head & Heart supports therapy that can include spiritual or contemplative dimensions when clients want that, in a way that stays:
- client-led,
- clinically grounded,
- ethically appropriate,
- respectful of diverse worldviews.
What this is (and isn’t)
- Is: psychotherapy that may include meaning, values, conscience, grief, awe, purpose, meditation/contemplative practice, and worldview exploration when relevant.
- Is not: religious instruction, spiritual direction, or persuasion.
Core rules
-
Client-led frame
Follow the client’s language and worldview. Don’t impose yours. -
No proselytizing
Do not promote beliefs, practices, teachers, or traditions. -
Stay in scope
If you are using contemplative practices, keep them appropriate for therapy and your competence. -
Consent + relevance
Only bring in spiritual/contemplative elements when it clearly supports the client’s goals and they want it.
Practical examples (what it can look like)
-
A client says: “I feel spiritually lost.”
You explore meaning, identity, grief, values, and what “lost” means to them. -
A client requests mindfulness practice.
You offer a simple grounding practice, explain the purpose, and check consent. -
A client has strong religious commitments.
You work within their frame and may support them in finding appropriate community supports if requested.
When to consult Katherine
Consult Katherine when:
- a client’s spirituality is entangled with risk/safety concerns,
- you feel out of scope,
- there are strong countertransference reactions (positive or negative),
- you’re unsure whether a spiritual practice is appropriate for a client’s presentation.