Abstract

This new edited collection explores the intersection of spiritual direction and counselling/psychotherapy, and the relationship between the two. Citing the influencing effect prayer and counselling have had on each other, the contributors offer insight into the similarities and differences of spiritual direction and counselling, and of what the disciplines have to learn from each other.

Advocating the importance of addressing the spiritual dimension of care in areas such as mental health and social care, this book promotes a synthesis of pastoral guidance and psychological counselling. The chapters offer insight to the healing role spirituality and prayer can play when counselling for trauma, sexual abuse or loss of a loved one. Whether discussing training counsellors to be spiritually literate, or exploring how spiritual accompaniers can take a psychologically-informed approach, all the contributors bring their extensive experience to bear working with spiritual and psychological issues.

There is today a growing interest in the interface between counselling, psychotherapy, and spiritual accompaniment. What is the way forward if it becomes apparent that a client, knowing that the counsellor is a person of faith, is hoping to receive some spiritual input also?
In a collection of excellent essays some pertinent questions in this area are explored and analysed. A book to be read by all who are interested in the spiritual dimension of professional counselling.

Elizabeth Ruth Obbard, Carmelite nun, author and spiritual director
I recommend (this book), not only to those engaged in practical theology, but also to those offering serious pastoral care, their supervisors, and those in lay and ordained ministerial training and their tutors.
Revd Ann Holmes - former MHS mental health chaplain
Church Times

Each contributor cites current practice and research, and the self-contained chapters offer an invaluable resource to a wider range of practitioners than those practicing the two disciplines intentionally brought together.
I recommend [this book], not only to those engaged in practical theology, but also to those offering serious pastoral care, their supervisors, and those in lay and ordained ministerial training and their tutors.

The Revd Anne Holmes, former NHS mental-health chaplain, psychotherapist and SSM in the diocese of Oxford
Church Times
These chapters offer valuable reflections for all those engaged in spiritual direction/accompaniment in pastoral and therapeutic settings. I am grateful for the breadth and depth of the insights shared here. This is a book of wisdom and practical resources for all helping others in their spiritual journeys.
The Revd Neil Thorogood, Principal of Westminster College, University of Cambridge
As a psychotherapist I am often asked, "Does therapy work?" I reply that it keeps people alive. The same question can be asked about spiritual direction or spiritual accompaniment. The answer is the same. It keeps people alive. Gubi's work, and that of his fellow writers, reminds us of the vital overlaps between psyche, spirit, mind, body, and emotions, united in a life-giving task. This book provokes and enlivens by bringing together therapeutic and spiritual traditions in a creative dialogue.
Alistair Ross, Director of Psychodynamic Studies, University of Oxford
This book is a great help in our understanding of the intersection between counselling and spiritual direction. It reminds us that spirituality is at the very heart of our work in health care.
Dr Pravin Thevathasan
Catholic Medical Quarterly