Religiosity and clinical psychotherapeutic practice: contributions to the psychology of religion

Abstract

Beliefs and spiritual/religious practices are an important part of culture, as well as of principles used to form judgments and process information. Multiple studies indicate that such belief systems are also important to the adherence to psychotherapy and to achieve better results. This article reflects upon the psychotherapeutic clinical practice and the changes observed in the pattern of religiosity of those involved in such practices. The relationship between the participation in a group psychotherapy developed by the author (the Socio-Community Therapy) and changes observed in participants’ religious patterns is discussed. A counterpoint is made with other psychotherapeutic approaches and psychiatric clinic practices that have persistent problems to accept and integrate the religious and spiritual dimension. Some recommendations proposed by the American Psychiatric Association, as well as the Conselho Regional de Psicologia de São Paulo (Regional Council of Psychology–São Paulo) are pointed out. Scientists of religion can make important contributions to health care professionals who, as a rule, are not prepared to deal with human religious dimension.