Aren’t therapists supposed to tell me what to do about my problems? Why are they asking me about my
spiritual beliefs?
Everyone has spiritual beliefs: whether there is a God, what constitutes good behavior, and what happens after we die. Some people have a religion which provides a framework for their spiritual beliefs, and some do not. While mental health therapists are trained in evidence-based approaches to treat mental health problems, the best therapists also strive to understand and value the client’s own world view.
Extensive research shows that having a spiritual belief system of any kind creates meaning, provides hope and strength, offers connection, and gives us a framework and direction with which to live our lives, all of which are important in mental and physical health. Therapists are taught to avoid imposing their own beliefs upon clients; rather they strive to respect different beliefs and to help the client solve their problems with the context of values which are important to them.
Therapists at Wisdom Path, PLLC use these evidence-based approaches to treatment, but we also value a holistic approach to health, incorporating interventions which improve physical, emotional/mental, and spiritual aspects of a person. Body, mind, and spirit are all interconnected, and each affects the others. One of our core values is to respect and value all spiritual belief systems and to help clients within the context of their own spiritual framework.
All of our therapists work with individuals from all faith groups effectively and respectfully, but some clients prefer therapists who identify with their specific faith and share their world view. We are excited to announce the addition of a new therapist to our team: Runy Thao, MSW, LCSW-A, who is trained in traditional mental health and also holds a certification in pastoral (Christian) counseling. For those clients who request this approach, Runy is able to provide this specialization. Christian Counseling is a type of therapy approach that integrates traditional mental health counseling methods with Christian values and beliefs. Methods include incorporating theological concepts, prayer, and study of scripture. Christian counseling adds to the traditional mental health counseling by integrating the client’s Christian faith, values, and spirituality during the sessions. If this is a method which is important to you, feel free to contact our office to schedule an appointment with her (828-475-6544). You can read more about her on our website www.wisdonpathnc.com/about .
Therapists at Wisdom Path value and respect all religious and spiritual beliefs, and we strive to understand their meaning and value to you. Even if you aren’t sure what you believe, we try to help you clarify your own values and find your own meaning, with or without a formal spiritual or religious practice. There is no judgement here. Challenging personal problems and personal growth are complex and multifaceted. We are here to help.