A Qualitative Metasynthesis of Client Experience of Addressing Spirituality and Religion in Counseling and A Grounded Theory Study of How Private Practice Christian Clients Experience Their Spirituality and Religion During the Counseling Process With Similar Faith Counselors

Abstract

The purpose of this dissertation was to contribute to deeper understanding of how client’s experience their spirituality and religion during the therapy process. The first manuscript is located in chapter 2 and titled A Qualitative Metasynthesis of Client Experience of Addressing Spirituality and Religion in Counseling. This metasynthesis pools together eleven pieces of qualitative research client’s spirituality and religion in therapy. Phenomenological analysis methods were utilized for this synthesis and produced four key themes: (a) a context, (b) a fear, (c) a freedom, and (d) a personal expression. The second manuscript is located in chapter 3 and titled A Grounded Theory Study of How Private Practice Christian Clients Experience Their Spirituality and Religion During the Counseling Process With Similar Faith Counselors. This theory describes the central priority that spiritual/religious identity takes in the life of these participants. In turn, this central priority enters into therapy with the client and impacts the structure of therapy and experience of the therapy process. Implications for practice and training, limitations, and areas for future research are explored for each manuscript. The two manuscripts are unified by their common focus on spirituality and religion during the therapeutic process