Everywhere and nowhere: A systematic review of spirituality training for behavioral health providers.

Abstract

Introduction: Spirituality is a recognized component of holistic care, yet many health care professionals struggle to integrate it into practice due to limited training, discomfort, and the absence of standardized guidelines. Behavioral health providers (BHPs) are uniquely trained in meaning-making, identity, relationships, and systemic context-domains that are inherently aligned with spiritual care. Despite this alignment, BHPs face similar challenges as other professionals when addressing spirituality in clinical settings.

Method: This systematic review examined U.S.-based spirituality training for BHPs published between 2000 and 2024. A comprehensive search of PubMed, CINAHL, and APA PsycInfo identified relevant studies. Thematic synthesis was used to integrate findings and identify gaps in training content, assessment, and delivery.

Results: Forty-three training programs were identified, most developed in academic contexts, with wide variation in structure and evaluation. Only two evidence-based models-Interprofessional Spiritual Care Education Curriculum and the Spiritual Competency Training in Mental Health-were found. Few programs used validated assessment tools. A novel clinical stance, spiritual humility, emerged from the synthesis, emphasizing self-awareness, openness, and respect for the diverse spiritual identities of patients and families.

Discussion: Although existing models offer valuable structure, their implementation varies widely due to resource constraints and inconsistent interdisciplinary involvement in training contexts. Many programs lack validated assessment tools or patient and family input. Spiritual humility could complement these models as a stance supporting culturally responsive, family-centered spiritual care. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).