The Skillful Soul of the Psychotherapist: The Link between Spirituality and Clinical Excellence

In The Skillful Soul of the Psychotherapist, master clinicians reflect on their core spiritual values, beliefs, experiences, and the role these play in psychotherapy. Reflections by Nancy McWilliams, David Wallin, and Salman Akhtar are responded to by scholars representing a substantial range of psychological, spiritual, religious, and theological perspectives. The ensuing scholarly, clinical dialogue advances the idea that a psychotherapist's formative spiritual experiences and core values both deeply influence and are simultaneously influenced by the therapeutic relationships and healing work that constitute his or her clinical practice. Through this addressing of the interplay between these master clinicians' inner wisdom and the therapeutic process, readers will see demonstrated firsthand the vital importance of the psychotherapist's spiritual life for creative and effective clinical work. This volume will also provide the opportunity for both experienced and training psychotherapists to enrich their own clinical practice via a more robust engagement in the points of contact and resonance that exist between their work with clients and their own unique spiritual lives and experiences.