James L. Griffith and Melissa Elliott Griffith

This book begins with the premise that the great majority of therapists will encounter clients who make reference to religious or spiritual beliefs that either serve in their healing or their harm.  How and when to respond to these statements is the subject of this book.  The text describes how to cultivate conversation about spirituality in an effort to help people resolve relationship problems, treat psychiatric symptoms, or cope with medical illness.  From a perspective outside the domain of a particular religion, the authors have provided good case examples to illustrate their principles and have cited applicable research.  Included also is an especially important section on how to deal with spiritual convictions that may be alienating or destructive.