Perspective of Therapists on Religion and Spirituality in Therapy Work with Suicide Attempters in the United States: A Pilot Study

Even though it is generally accepted that religion and spirituality (R/S) can play an important role in therapy, this study attempts to determine if this is indeed the practice and, if so, the extent that R/S plays among therapists who work with suicide attempters. Five mental health therapists from different faith backgrounds located in Santa Clara County, CA were recruited and interviewed. After employing the research method of Thematic Analysis, five themes emerged from the interview transcripts. The results from the interviews based on the themes suggested the following: (a) spirituality and religion were important in dealing with potential suicides, (b) it was important for the therapist to not impose their beliefs on the client but rather to support the client in their faith, and (c) there should be more training provided to therapists concerning religion. Also, the responses indicated that spiritual literature could be used to help clients and that therapists should find strength from their own faith.