Religion, Spirituality and Psychotherapy (7 CE)
Course Level: Beginner, Intermediate
This Course Is For: Social Workers, Counselors, and Marriage & Family Therapists
Course Developed By: Jennifer Kolb, LCSW
Bio: Jennifer Kolb, LCSW; Social Work Consultant, reviewed and determined the course meets requirements for continuing education in the field of social work. This course is appropriate for masters and clinical level social workers. Jennifer graduated with a Master’s degree in Social Work with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Louisville, Kentucky. She specializes in school-based psychotherapy with children and adolescents, as well as licensing exam coaching and preparation.
Content By: Patricia Patton-Lehn, Ph.D., Gerry Grossman, M.A., LMFT
Course Description: Of all the human diversity issues addressed in psychotherapy, spirituality and religion remains one of the most overlooked and devalued. There is a history of conflict between the spiritual and psychotherapeutic realms, with some therapists believing that the two areas are mutually exclusive. Many graduate programs do not include training about the potential role of spirituality in psychotherapy. This course explores the various roles of spirituality and religion and the creation of a “sacred place” in the context of psychotherapy. An overview of sacred themes, symbols, rituals and language for the major Western and Eastern religions is reviewed. Other topics include identifying a working definition of spirituality, assessing for secular or religious/spiritual therapy, incorporating Jungian perspectives on spirituality, and specific treatment techniques that judiciously utilize religious/spiritual practices.
Learning Objectives:
- Determine a working definition of spirituality for psychotherapists.
- Assess for the use of secular or religious/spiritual elements with clients.
- Identify the essential dynamics for creating a “sacred place” in psychotherapy.
- Discuss various sacred themes, symbols, rituals and language for the major Western and Eastern religions, including Jungian perspectives on spirituality.
- Utilize specific treatment approaches from various religious/spiritual orientations in an ethical and professional way.
- Identify and manage therapist’s countertransferential reactions.
Approvals:
Board Approvals | American Psychological Association (APA), NBCC, Florida Board - Social Work, MFT, Counseling, and Psychology, NYSED - Social Work, MFT and Counseling Only, American Academy of Health Care Providers in the Addictive Disorders |
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CE Format | Online, Text-Based |