Hello Dr. Lawrence and Class,
Grand Canyon University’s Statement on the Integration of Faith and Work states that salvation
comes through Jesus and that a Christians life should include compassion and care not only for
the spiritual needs of individuals but also for basic physical needs that stem from oppression,
poverty, and injustice (GCU, n.d.). That being said, effective counseling should address the mind
body and spirit. Religion and spirituality are often times part of the client’s problem and also
part of their solution. Because spiritual and religious values can play a major part in human life,
spiritual values should be viewed as a potential resource in therapy rather than as something to
be ignored.
Many people find that spiritual values provide meaning to the universe and the
reason for our existence. Spirituality and religion are critical sources of strength for many
clients, are the bedrock for finding meaning in life, and can be instrumental in promoting
healing and well-being (Corey, 2006). When working with African American clients, it is
important to understand that many of the challenges they face are not intrapsychic in origin but
are instigated by reactions to the sociocultural environment. With this perspective in mind,
counselors can help their clients by incorporating their faith or spirituality into therapy.
Religious beliefs can help provide a deep sense of purpose and meaning of life. It can also offer
perspective when clients are overwhelmed with life’s problems (Corey, 2006).
Corey, G. (2006). Integrating spirituality in counseling practice.
Journal Vistas
,
6
.
https://www.counseling.org/docs/default-source/vistas/integrating-spirituality-in-counseling-
practice.pdf?sfvrsn=7ddd7e2c_10
Statement on the Integration of Faith and Work. (n.d.). Grand Canyon University.
https://www.gcu.edu/Documents/Statement-IFLW.pdf.
