SPIRITUALITY IN MENTAL HEALTH

According to a recent study conducted by researchers at Baylor University, spirituality is rarely discussed in counseling sessions.   Kenneth Pargament, PhD, an expert in the psychology of spirituality and religion, points to the historical separation of psychology and spirituality as a possible factor.  

CCCG has long been a champion of services that address the full person -- mind, body and spirit.  Our therapists are uniquely trained and qualified to do so.   Coming alongside, the federal government is increasingly recognizing the importance holistic care; for instance, SAMSHA's wellness initiative addresses 8 dimensions of wellness.

Professional groups such as the Association for Spiritual, Ethical and Religious Values in Counseling (ASERVIC) and The Council on Social Work Education's Religion and Spirituality Work Group have articulated competencies that can help therapists address spirituality in an ethically and culturally appropriate manner.  For example, ASERVIC competencies include counselor awareness that a client's beliefs are central to his/her worldview; counselor awareness of how his/her own beliefs influence the counseling process;  and counselor awareness that a client's spiritual and religious beliefs can enhance client wellness or contribute to client problems.  

 Whatever a client's belief system - whether spiritual, religious, or none of the above - we all have a need to make meaning of our human experience.  If you or a loved one is struggling with questions of significance, purpose, or transcendence, our counselors can help. 

There are various types of boundaries including material, physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual boundaries.   Setting digital boundaries  is increasingly important, whether at work or with friends and family.

Boundary setting is a learned behavior.   If you weren't valued as a child, you probably didn't learn to set healthy boundaries, but it's never too late to learn.   Here are some tips for setting healthy boundaries, whether with friends, parents, siblings, spouses/partners, colleagues, or children.

• Learn that you have a right to personal boundaries.
• Recognize that other people's needs and feelings are not more important than yours.
• Learn to say no - or a softer version of no, such as, "That won't work for me."
• Identify actions and behaviors that you find unacceptable.
• Trust and believe in yourself.

How do we know if our boundaries are being violated?  If you feel angry, chances are that a boundary has been crossed or a need is not being met.   Tune into your feelings and see if you can identify the root of the problem. 

Setting and maintaining boundaries protects our time and energy, builds self-esteem, enhances feelings of control, and improves relationships.  If you are struggling with setting boundaries, a CCCG counselor can help.