People often mix up religion and spirituality, and many traditional faith communities believe that having one or the other is all you need in life. Educators, on the other hand, argue that science is enough on its own. I believe that a healthy balance of both is the key to a happier and healthier life. In this blog, we’ll debunk a few myths, talk about what religion and spirituality really are, and explore how combining them with caring for your mental health can lead to powerful transformation, healing, and a deeper connection with yourself and your higher power.
Religion vs. spirituality, what’s the difference?
Spirituality and religion are unmistakably different yet undeniably related. While spirituality speaks to a non-physical connection and the process of pursuing something sacred, religion is a more organized set of practices and beliefs to reach a shared goal.
Spirituality is a vital part of organized religion, but can also exist independently. Spirituality is an individual experience in pursuit of oneness with a higher power; this can involve time in nature, prayer, prioritizing relationships, or routines of physical care. Over time, an individual’s Spirituality results in a set of beliefs and practices that, when done religiously, show others how they can achieve the same connection.
Religion is the ongoing practice of one person or group’s spiritual experience. We see this in major religions of the world. For instance, Judaism reflects the spiritual journey of Abraham and his descendants, Christianity that of Jesus, Buddhism that of Buddha, and Islam that of Muhammad.
I want to talk about my faith in counseling, but it seems inappropriate or even blasphemous if I share my true feelings.
In the United States, people often avoid talking about politics or religion, especially in professional spaces. Yet, many clients say religion is an important part of their lives, and more than 70% of U.S. adults say they want the chance to talk about religion or spirituality during therapy. It may be considered taboo, but if we can openly discuss trauma and the deeper parts of our minds and daily lives in counseling, why should we leave this important piece out?
Do you ever wonder how there could be a higher power when you’re struggling so much? Is it hard to admit that the religion you grew up with taught you one thing, but your personal spirituality is teaching you something else? Are you finding it difficult to live by your beliefs and values in a world that doesn’t honor them?
These questions aren’t blasphemous, they’re meaningful. Oxford Languages defines sacred as “dedicated to a religious purpose and deserving of veneration or great respect.” Asking questions that bring you closer to your higher power is not only a sign of respect, but also a sign of your commitment to truly understanding yourself and your faith.
When these deep existential questions are left unspoken, they can cause distress, leaving people feeling confused and isolated. For many, counseling is the only safe space to say the hard things out loud, that safety should extend to topics like religion and spirituality. Both of which play a powerful role in improving mental health and can help reduce rates of suicide, alcoholism, and drug use.
Okay, therapy is safe, but most therapists use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; who is to say my beliefs aren’t irrational thoughts they think I should unlearn?
Years ago, I would have shared the same concerns because in 2016, 80% of practicing counselors said they had little to no training on how to address or include spiritual and religious topics in therapy. In the last ten years, psychological publications on religion and spirituality in counseling have increased by 600%.
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), which accredits 983 master’s and doctoral counseling programs, includes religion and spirituality in its training standards. CACREP requires counselors to understand the role of religion and spirituality in both clients’ and counselors’ mental health, and to serve people from many cultural backgrounds without bias. This includes religious identity.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on changing negative thought patterns that contribute to mental health struggles. Some people argue that religion is irrational because it can’t be proven scientifically. But we’ve already established that spirituality is a deeply personal experience that shapes the way a person lives their life. While religious beliefs can impact mental health it is not the role of the counselor to decide if they are irrational. Therapy is a team effort. As the client, you take an active role in noticing and challenging your thoughts, while I offer guidance and tools to help. The counselor’s role is to support the client and remain unbiased while respecting your autonomy and right to make your own religious/spiritual choices.
Unbiased counseling can’t include religion/spirituality … or can it?
It’s natural to think your best option is finding a counselor who shares your religious beliefs. While that might feel comforting, it can sometimes do more harm than good. A counselor who shares your faith may relate to your experiences, but it can also create bias.
You’re the expert on your own religious and spiritual beliefs. It’s important to remember that it’s not the role of the counselor to make your beliefs match theirs or match the socially accepted view of your religion, but to help you explore and work through your beliefs in a way that feels safe and respectful.
We all like connecting with people who have things in common with us, whether it’s appearance, education, or life experiences. But the most important thing in therapy is having a counselor who is well trained, unbiased, and committed to your growth. That kind of counselor can work with you no matter how similar or different your beliefs are.
Unbiased counseling includes an ethical commitment to act in your best interest and respects your right to make your own choices. Those values shouldn’t change when we talk about religion or spirituality.
How do religion, spirituality, and mental health co-exist?
Spirituality is personal. It’s the set of beliefs and practices you follow, whether on your own or as part of a faith community. Even in an organized religion, no two people have the exact same spiritual experience. Both your religion and your spirituality shape how you see the world and how you live your life.
Religion isn’t just a list of “don’ts.” It can give you a sense of purpose, connection, and community. Spiritual rituals are powerful tools for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. Your mental health depends not only on what you believe but also on how you live and interact with the world around you.
For some, talking about religion and spirituality in counseling can be a helpful and healing experience. For others, it may mean working through past trauma. And for some, it’s the start of discovering themselves through a search for a higher power. Wherever you might be on your religious or spiritual journey, counseling is the right place to navigate it with unbiased support, and you in the driver’s seat.
Mental health is not the absence of a diagnosis; it is the ongoing care of your emotional, social, and mental compass. At Isaiah Counseling & Wellness, we’re here to help you find your way in every direction. Call us today to get started.
Learn more about Isaiah Counseling & Wellness in Charlotte, NC.