Citation

Cunningham M. Crisis Interv. Time Ltd. Treat. 2000; 6(1): 65-77.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, Harwood Academic Publishers)

DOI

10.1080/10645130008951297

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Spirituality, in the broadest sense of the word, can be seen as the frame that guides individuals in finding meaning in their lives and the events that occur. Historically, therapists have been reluctant to explore the spiritual aspects of their clients' lives. This article discusses this reluctance and the importance of understanding clients' spiritual beliefs, especially during a crisis event, such as bereavement. Culture shapes spiritual beliefs, which influence how the crisis is processed and resolved. The impact of these beliefs is explored in several areas of concern to bereaved clients. If therapists are not aware of different cultural belief systems, they may dismiss their clients' beliefs as superstitious or label them as pathology.