Chapter 9. Theistic Psychotherapy and the God Image

SUMMARY

Assessing and working with issues of God image in therapy are often an essential part of successful treatment. God image development is a complex process that may include influences from family, peers, culture, gender, age, religious theology and tradition. From a the-istic perspective, individuals' actual relationship with God can have the greatest impact on God image development. According to this perspective, it is important that therapists help clients explore their image of God and the ways it impacts their spirituality and presenting concerns. Encouraging clients to engage in spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, scripture study, and spiritual reflection can help them create a more genuine relationship with God, and promotes a healthier, more mature God image.