Understanding Symbols when Working with Anxious Religious Clients in Positive Psychotherapy

Abstract

The article illustrates specifics of working with religious clients in the context of Positive and Transcultural Psychotherapy. The article touches upon important aspects of using metaphors which are close to the perception of a person’s spiritual and ideological characteristics. The use of metaphors, parables, and references to scriptures helps to establish a good contact with the patient, assisting the therapist to achieve a greater therapeutic success. A particularly significant effect is achieved in working with religious people with anxiety disorders. As noted below, it is extremely important to take into account clients’ cultural background and choose metaphors and images that are close to his/her worldview. This case clearly illustrates how well-chosen references to religious symbols improved the therapeutic effect of working with a psychologist.