Transcendence and imminence in psychotherapy

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Religious Studies
• Psychotherapy

Background:

• The historical tension between religious beliefs and psychotherapy practices presents a persistent challenge in mental health.
• Traditional therapeutic models often focus on immediate experiences, potentially conflicting with spiritual or religious frameworks that emphasize broader contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To re-examine the compatibility of religion and psychotherapy.
• To propose a theoretical model that integrates spiritual and religious dimensions into therapeutic practice.
• To offer a framework for therapists to understand and utilize transcendence in their methodology.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of existing literature on religion, psychotherapy, and existential psychology.
• Development of a theoretical model centered on the concept of transcendence.
• Exploration of how a transcendent perspective can inform therapeutic goals and techniques.

Main Results:

• The concept of transcendence provides a bridge between religious/spiritual perspectives and psychotherapy.
• Moving beyond the 'here-and-now' focus allows for a richer therapeutic dialogue.
• Transcendence can be a valuable model for both therapist self-development and therapeutic interventions.

Conclusions:

• Religion and psychotherapy can be compatible when therapeutic frameworks evolve.
• A model of transcendence offers a pathway to integrate spiritual and psychological healing.
• Therapists can enhance their practice by incorporating a transcendent perspective, fostering deeper patient growth.