Given that constructivist approaches to counseling and religious faith traditions have divergent views regarding the understanding and perception of reality, the question arises, "Can a counselor embrace both a constructivist counseling approach and a particular religious tradition?" Using a diversity within unity perspective, the author argues…

Constructivist and Buddhist approaches to counseling and psychotherapy share increasing popularity as well as similar epistemological assumptions and understanding of human dysfunction and its amelioration. These approaches can be seen as consistent with postmodern psychology, which is distinguished from a realist or foundationalist view. This…

This article draws from a phenomenological study on the experience of being a bereavement counselor. Ten bereavement counselors shared their experiences in bereavement counseling. Spiritual and emotional aspects of bereavement counseling with grieving and dying persons are discussed as well as the spiritual effects on and growth processes of the…

The authors summarize the growing body of empirical research literature in the area of psychology of religion that has been guided by attachment theory and indicate implications for counseling, including practical suggestions for case conceptualization, possible spiritual interventions, and ethical guidelines for practice. Attachment theory…

Explores the history of the relationship between religion and psychology, integration difficulties within psychotherapy, and recommendations for problem resolution. Presents two religious frameworks psychologists can use to reduce conflicts and enhance religious concerns. Concludes psychology has a responsibility to examine the religious realm in…

Examines nature of therapist spiritual and religious values and impact of these values on psychotherapy practice. Suggests that integration of therapist spiritual and religious values with therapist epistemic values to accommodate spiritual and religious needs of both client and counselor should be goal of effective treatment. Includes 28…

Shows the nature of psychotherapy as a moral enterprise through an examination of two views of theory, i.e., they either contain moral values or require them as assumptions necessary for practice. Briefly discusses implications for the teaching and presentation of forms of psychotherapy. (BH)

Comments on article by Blakeney and Blakeney in which they offer metatheoretical perspective for counseling and therapy that gives primacy to developmental issues and to understanding worldview of client. Goes on to further demonstrate holistic and integrative nature and potential of Blakeney framework, using Developmental Counseling and Therapy…

Argues for a dialectical tension between critical, psychological theory, and the practice of psychotherapy. Faults the development of the counseling movement and finds, in the philosophical categories offered in the pragmatism of William James, ground for both critical theorizing and therapeutic pursuits. (Author/JAC)

Examines some of the values in Perls's theory of psychotherapy, which his Gestalt Prayer epitomizes. Argues that at least five of the major value claims presupposed by his psychotherapeutic theory and practice are in fact dangerous half-truths. (JAC)

Describes ways in which a spiritual approach can contribute to the modern applied science of behavior change. Divides approach into three areas: conception of human nature, moral frame of reference, and set of techniques. Discusses and demonstrates the transitional person technique. (Author/BH)

Discusses history of demise of meditation in West and reemergence as Eastern system. Explores reasons for this phenomenon. Discusses differences between Eastern and Western meditation, psychology of meditation, research, and applications of meditation to counseling. Concludes meditation may be used as an integral part of pastoral counseling…

In Jungian terminology, a crisis occurs when one's persona-based personality structure collapses and ego is displaced as the center of the psyche. Subsequent confusion is necessary for establishment of self as new center of personality. Religiously speaking, confrontation of ego with self is experienced as a power or force beyond the control of…

Discusses religious and family loyalties and their relationship to behavioral motivation. Focuses on the significance of religious loyalities for the clinician as well as the client, and points out the need to demystify religion and religious experience. (JAC)

Presents a response to D. A. Helminiak's (2001) article from the perspective of K. Wilber's integral psychology. Discusses a summary of integral psychology; various conceptual issues; and usefulness to mental health practitioners (MHPs). Argues that K. Wilber's model is more comprehensive, clear, coherent, and helpful to MHPs than Helminiak's…