God Image Handbook for Spiritual Counseling and Psychotherapy: Research, Theory, and Practice

Learn seven clinical approaches to working with the God image in psychotherapy Each person has two ideas of God - the God concept and the God image. The God concept is intellectual in nature, while the God image is the subjective emotional experience of God that is shaped by a persons family history. Those who struggle with mental health issues often have a God image that is distant, critical, and judgmental because they had parents who behaved that way. "God Image Handbook for Spiritual Counseling and Psychotherapy: Research, Theory, and Practice" provides therapists with the tools to effectively treat clients who harbor God image issues. This unique manual builds upon strong philosophical and research foundations to offer seven practical clinical approaches to working with the God image in psychotherapy. Leading clinicians and researchers from various disciplines offer expert insight and analysis to provide therapists with in-depth understanding of the God image. "God Image Handbook for Spiritual Counseling and Psychotherapy: Research, Theory, and Practice" comprehensively discusses the psychodynamic foundation and research that contribute to the understanding of the God image, and then presents seven different theoretical and technical approaches to help those who have personal and religious problems. Case examples illustrate how the God image changes through the therapy process. The guidebook also explores future developments and the implications of race, culture, gender orientation, and economic conditions that impact the God image. Each approach and theory in "God Image Handbook for Spiritual Counseling and Psychotherapy: Research, Theory, and Practice" examine: