ABSTRACT
Background
Psychologists often receive limited formal training in addressing clients’ religious or spiritual concerns, leaving many underprepared when such issues arise in clinical practice.
Methods
This qualitative study explored UK psychologists’ experiences of engaging with religion and spirituality in therapy to identify key challenges and opportunities for professional learning and support. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 qualified psychologists and analysed using thematic analysis.
Results
Four interrelated themes were constructed: (1) Cultural Framing of Religion and Spirituality in Psychological Practice, illustrating how British cultural norms influence openness to discussing religion and spirituality in therapy; (2) Lack of Support for Religious and Spiritual Competence, describing the absence of religion and spiritual content in training and continuing professional development; (3) Reflexivity and the Negotiation of Therapeutic Boundaries, reflecting variation in psychologists’ comfort and confidence when addressing religious and spiritual issues; (4) Navigating Religious and Spiritual Issues in Therapeutic Practice, capturing differences in therapeutic approach and the management of self-disclosure.
Discussion
The findings highlight the influence of cultural attitudes on therapeutic engagement, limited institutional and supervisory support for addressing religion and spirituality, and variation in practice with clients. Greater professional recognition of religious and spiritual competence, enhanced supervision and reflexive training are recommended to promote more inclusive, confident and ethically grounded practice.