Transforming Wisdom: Pastoral Psychotherapy in Theological Perspective

Transforming Wisdom offers an extensive multidisciplinary introduction to pastoral psychotherapy from some of the most respected practitioners in the field. With special attention to theological perspectives on the practice of psychotherapy this collection of essays will be useful to students seeking an orientation to the art and science of pastoral psychotherapy as well as to seasoned professionals looking to refresh and renew their practice. As the subtitle Pastoral Psychotherapy in Theological Perspective suggests this book is intended to represent the field of pastoral psychotherapy as a mental-health discipline that maintains intentional dialogue with its theological roots. Even as pastoral psychotherapy has developed from the ancient notion of the cure of souls to the current search for a psychology of happiness therapists grounded in faith communities seek a practice that is respectful of all persons mindful of the deep wisdom that emanates from the true self or soul. While many contributors write from a psychoanalytic or psychodynamic perspective grounded in Christian theological idioms diverse theoretical perspectives including Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy Narrative Therapy Buddhist Mindfulness and Jungian understanding of individuation are represented. This book represents the very best of contemporary pastoral psychotherapy engaging religion in deeper ways than either Christian counseling or popular efforts to integrate spirituality in health care. Through rich examples and careful research outstanding scholars and clinicians show how theology faith and spirituality come alive in therapeutic interactions. A definitive and useful volume for those who practice and teach psychotherapy and caregiving. --Bonnie J. Miller-McLemore E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Professor of Religion Psychology and Culture Vanderbilt University Felicity B. Kelcourse is Associate Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling at Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis. She edited and contributed to Human Development and Faith (2004) and has coedited (with Kathleen Greider and Debora van Deusen Hunsinger) Healing Wisdom: Depth Psychology and the Pastoral Ministry (2010). K. Brynolf Lyon is the Lois and Dale Bright Professor of Christian Ministries at Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis. He has coauthored (with Dan Moseley) How to Lead in Church Conflict: Healing Ungrieved Loss (2012).