The religiousness/spirituality dimension in clinical practice: An integrative review of the scientific literature

Abstract

This study presents an integrative review on how religiousness/spirituality (R/S) is present in the scientific literature on clinical practice in Psychology. The searches in LILACS, SciELO, PePSIC, MEDLINE/PubMed and PsycINFO databases (January 2010/March 2016) showed 50 predominantly qualitative productions published in international journals. It was evidenced that R/S has been incorporated into the notions of health, care and integrality, being recognized as a dimension with cultural aspects that must be considered in clinical practice. The literature presents some protocols and strategies that can be used in clinical practice as an alternative to integrate R/S to the care offered. It is suggested that Brazilian researchers continue to investigate the topic in order to offer ethical and innovative practices regarding the difficulties faced by psychotherapists and newly graduates.