What Counsellors and Spiritual Directors Can Learn from Each Other

There is today a growing interest in the interface between counselling, psychotherapy, and spiritual accompaniment. What is the way forward if it becomes apparent that a client, knowing that the counsellor is a person of faith, is hoping to receive some spiritual input also?In a collection of excellent essays some pertinent questions in this area are explored and analysed. A book to be read by all who are interested in the spiritual dimension of professional counselling.

– Elizabeth Ruth Obbard, Carmelite nun, author and spiritual directorAs a psychotherapist I am often asked, “Does therapy work?” I reply that it keeps people alive. The same question can be asked about spiritual direction or spiritual accompaniment. The answer is the same. It keeps people alive. Gubi’s work, and that of his fellow writers, reminds us of the vital overlaps between psyche, spirit, mind, body, and emotions, united in a life-giving task. This book provokes and enlivens by bringing together therapeutic and spiritual traditions in a creative dialogue. – Alistair Ross, Director of Psychodynamic Studies, University of OxfordThese chapters offer valuable reflections for all those engaged in spiritual direction/accompaniment in pastoral and therapeutic settings. I am grateful for the breadth and depth of the insights shared here. This is a book of wisdom and practical resources for all helping others in their spiritual journeys. – The Revd Neil Thorogood, Principal of Westminster College, University of CambridgeThis book is a great help in our understanding of the intersection between counselling and spiritual direction. It reminds us that spirituality is at the very heart of our work in health care. – Dr Pravin Thevathasan * Catholic Medical Quarterly *I recommend (this book), not only to those engaged in practical theology, but also to those offering serious pastoral care, their supervisors, and those in lay and ordained ministerial training and their tutors. – Revd Ann Holmes - former MHS mental health chaplain * Church Times *

Each contributor cites current practice and research, and the self-contained chapters offer an invaluable resource to a wider range of practitioners than those practicing the two disciplines intentionally brought together. I recommend [this book], not only to those engaged in practical theology, but also to those offering serious pastoral care, their supervisors, and those in lay and ordained ministerial training and their tutors.

– The Revd Anne Holmes, former NHS mental-health chaplain, psychotherapist and SSM in the diocese of Oxford * Church Times *