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SPIRITUAL COUNSELING

What is it?
DEFINITION AND EXPLANATION OF SPIRITUAL COUNSELING 
Spiritual counseling assists clients with understanding themselves and others, enhancing relationships and reducing conflict, increasing vocational success, and with attaining higher satisfaction in all areas of life. Although the techniques utilized by spiritual counselors are similar to those used by conventional counselors, there is additionally a notable focus on the spiritual aspect of the client’s life.

Thus, spiritual counseling distinguishes itself from other forms of therapy by its recognition and belief in a higher power, known as God, The Divine, Universal Energy, or Source Energy. Spiritual counseling’s theoretical orientation is that this power assists the client with his problems, and awareness of and focus on this power enables him to access the higher parts of himself. The client is also encouraged to turn to this higher power for internal support when dealing with great difficulties.

What is it used for?
CONDITIONS THAT SPIRITUAL COUNSELING MAY BE HELPFUL FOR

- Low overall levels of psychological wellbeing
- Depression or mood imbalances
- Anxiety, excessive worry and rumination
- Feelings of futility and sadness
- Concern over one’s purpose in life
- Relationship problems
- Vocational problems

What is it based on?
THEORY OF SPIRITUAL COUNSELING
Spiritual counseling is based on similar theories to those of conventional counseling—that through unconditional, positive regard, integrating positive behaviors and coping skills, and attaining higher levels of insight, individuals can make substantial improvements in all areas of life functioning. However, spiritual counselors build on these theories by integrating the component of spiritual growth and development. They believe that such focus is critical in assisting the client with obtaining the ability to live his own optimal life.

Spiritual counselors may have their own spiritual practices but most believe that counseling must work within the framework of the client’s own individual beliefs. Spiritual counseling also relies on the theory that a holistic approach to mental health is optimal, and that a variety of techniques and assessments will produce the best process for the client.

How is it done?
WHAT A SESSION OF SPIRITUAL COUNSELING IS LIKE
A session of spiritual counseling may last approximately 60 minutes. The counselor and client are generally seated comfortably either facing each other or at an angle. The client is first asked how the counselor may be of help or what the client wishes to focus on. The counselor may utilize a large variety of spiritual and conventional assessments to help determine the areas needing the most focus.

The client and therapist may spend much of the hour discussing and exploring the client’s issues and presenting concerns. The spiritual counselor will listen to the client, make observations, assist the client in reaching insights, and may suggest techniques or books to read. The client generally visits the counselor over a series of sessions, although a single session may be sufficient.

Spiritual counselors generally work with individuals, but may also counsel couples, families, and groups depending on their expertise and the presenting issues. They may also provide seminars to community or spiritual groups, and some work in health care or church settings.

Who does it?
SPIRITUAL COUNSELING PRACTITIONERS
No particular certification is legally required for a counselor to practice spiritual counseling. Some spiritual counselors have training in conventional therapy, and may hold a master’s or doctorate degree in counseling, psychology, or social work. Several have specialized training in particular fields of psychology, and some may have religious education as well.