Issues Treated in Therapy:

Religious Issues

Religion can be a defining characteristic for some people in how they live their lives and how they make their decisions. Many areas of their lives may be based on their religious views. There are many reasons a person is faced with religious issues. A person may be persecuted for his or her religious beliefs--emotionally, physically, sexually, mentally, or all of the above. A person may have questions or doubts about aspects of his or her religion which may cause issues of rebellion and/or uncharacteristic actions. Parents and/or guardians may impose their religious beliefs on their children which may also cause problems. Authority figures of a religious entity may not be acting in accordance with doctrines of their religious views which may cause others to have problems with that particular religion.

Psychological Issues Associated with Religious Issues
How Psychotherapy Can Help with Religious Issues

Psychological Issues Associated with Religious Issues

Religion can have a significant impact on the way a person lives and experiences their life. Issues due to religion may lead to changes in a person's religious beliefs and practices, behaviors and feelings toward others, and relationship to self. A person facing religious issues may have depressive symptoms including depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and/or behaviors, and may also use drugs or alcohol as coping mechanisms. People who are persecuted or discriminated against because of their religion may be diagnosed with disorders such as major depression, generalized anxiety, or posttraumatic stress. In the event that religious issues lead to physical or sexual abuse, medical treatment may be necessary.

How Psychotherapy Can Help with Religious Issues

Persons faced with religious issues may find psychotherapy beneficial. Psychotherapy may be able to offer a safe place for persons being discriminated against for their religious views and also a place where misunderstandings can be worked out. Psychotherapy may open doors to possible underlying issues associated with religious issues and help clients discover themselves as well as help in the development of effective coping skills.

When facing concerns or questions about your own religion, typically there are religious issues such as priests, pastors, rabbis et cetera, who can help. As another option, you can also see a traditional psychotherapist who is not providing religious based counseling but who can remain objective and neutral.

If there is something important you would like us to consider adding to this page, please feel free to suggest your ideas.