ReligiositySpirituality (RS) in the Clinical Context: Professional Experiences of Psychotherapists

Although the scientifi c production on religiosity/spirituality (R/S) is increasing, notably from their connection with the health dimension, this theme is practically absent in Psychology training. The objective of this study was to learn the professional reality of psychotherapists regarding their clinical experiences and the R/S dimension. Twenty-four professionals from two cities in the states of São Paulo and Minas Gerais, Brazil, with an average psychotherapy experience of 10.54 years, were interviewed individually. The interviews were transcribed in full and analyzed from the R/S literature. Such a dimension is evoked as relevant for all psychotherapists, although it has not been suffi ciently addressed in their training. The exploration of R/S stems from client demands and presents at times as an important resource for intervention, while in other times hinders the development of many conditions. The recent proposals of the Psychology Councils regarding R/S are unknown by the professionals, suggesting the need for greater dialog and also the presence of such discussions in Psychology training.