Contemplative Theory and Practice for Social Work

Abstract

Within the spirituality movement adopted by the helping professions a relatively new field of knowledge has developed, of contemplation and contemplative theory and practice, which has not yet been recognized in social work. We present major elements of contemplative theory and identify mindfulness and mindfulness meditation as viable procedures for social work practice, because they have specific relevance for individual, family, and group modalities. Contemplative theory is discussed in relation to transpersonal theory. Contemplative theory is also concerned with the psycho‐spiritual development of both client and worker and meets the need for a spiritual component in social work practice.

Keywords:

• Contemplative theory
• mindfulness practice
• clinical and spiritual aspects