Ethical Implications of Religious Based Interventions in Psychology

A Holistic Psychology of Persons: Implications for Theory and Practice

Summary

David N. Entwistle's (2009) article, "A Holistic Psychology of Persons: Implications for Theory and Practice," explores the implications of holistic psychology in understanding people's psychological functioning and well-being from the standpoint of a Christian psychologist. Entwistle’s (2009) point is to identify and evaluate the legal and ethical concerns that a psychologist applying a Christian framework to a client’s issues might face. Entwistle points out, for instance, that there is a great deal of difference between a secular intervention and a religious intervention. As Entwistle (2009) states, “Christian theology affirms the existence of spiritual, psychological, physical, and social realities” (p. 141). The Christian psychologist maintains a holistic view of personhood that sees integration between biopsychosocial realities and spiritual realities. One of Entwistle’s questions is how one can ethically address religious beliefs in therapy.

Entwistle (2009) notes that informed consent is of course necessary, and this process of obtaining informed consent should include explaining to the client that religious-based interventions are not standard for the practice of psychology. Associated risks should also be explained. But another issue may arise if the psychologist views the client’s religious beliefs or non-beliefs as being “in error” (p. 145). The most important conclusion of Entwistle (2009) is that religious-based interventions serve the holistic treatment of a client when they permit “the clinician to explore spirituality not simply as a utilitarian force for personal betterment, but as a legitimate encounter between persons, religious communities, and God, while simultaneously recognizing the biological, psychological, and sociological forces that are the bread and butter of psychology” (p. 146). At the same time, the psychologist must be sure to practice verified psychological techniques that are founded on sound theology, and that are applied ethically and with care for their potential for misuse and for consideration of their potential harmful consequences.

Reflection

Entwistle presents an interesting perspective on the role of religious beliefs in psychological therapy from the standpoint of a Christian psychologist. The author emphasizes the importance of a holistic understanding of personhood that integrates both biopsychosocial and spiritual realities. The article raises important ethical questions about how to approach religious beliefs in therapy, such as obtaining informed consent, and the potential for harmful consequences if religious-based interventions are not applied with care and sound theology.

From a personal perspective, this article is of interest as I am one who is greatly interested in the intersection of psychology and Christianity, and I would like to know more about how one can ethically integrate religious beliefs into psychological practice. It also offers insights into the importance of a holistic approach to understanding and treating mental health issues.

From a professional perspective, this article is also of interest as I consider my future among psychologists, counselors, and other mental health practitioners who work with clients who hold (or do not hold) Christian beliefs, as it provides guidance on how to approach religious beliefs in therapy in an ethical and effective manner. It also highlights the need for ongoing self-reflection and continuing education for mental health practitioners to ensure that their practice is founded on sound theology, and that interventions are applied in a way that is beneficial for the client. Overall, the article presents a thoughtful and nuanced approach to the subject, and I consider it a valuable resource for mental health practitioners who are interested in incorporating religious beliefs into their practice.

Application

The information presented in the article could be applied in different human services counseling settings in several ways. For example, the article highlights the importance of obtaining informed consent when incorporating religious-based interventions into therapy. This could be applied in a human services counseling setting by ensuring that clients are fully informed about the nature of the interventions being used, the potential risks and benefits, and the fact that these interventions are not standard for the practice of psychology.

The article also emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to understanding and treating mental health issues that integrates both biopsychosocial and spiritual realities. This could be applied in a human services counseling setting by taking into account the whole person - including their physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being - when formulating treatment plans.