Episode Details

In this episode of The Wise Practice Podcast, host Whitney Owens interviews Russell Jones, a psychotherapist who has been practicing since 1996 and recently wrote a book called "Spirit in Session." Jones also helps present the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education's Spiritual Integration in Psychotherapy (SIP) curriculum. Owens and Jones discuss the intersection of spirituality and therapy, and how to use one's therapy practice as a spiritual practice. Dr. Russell Siler Jones is the author of Spirit in Session: Working with Your Client's Spirituality (and Your Own) in Psychotherapy (Templeton Press, 2019) and of ACPE's SIP curriculum. He has practiced psychotherapy in Asheville, NC, since 1996 and directed the Residency in Psychotherapy and Spirituality for CareNet/Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist since 2008. He and his wife Jeanine are parents of two adult children.

The Importance of Spirituality in Therapy

Jones notes that spirituality is an important aspect of the therapeutic process, as it "is a part of our makeup as human beings." He states that "all people have some sense of spirituality," and that therapists should integrate this aspect into their practice. Owens agrees, stating that "it's important that we honor the spiritual aspect of our client's lives," as it can provide valuable insight into their mental health.

Jones also emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and spirituality for therapists. He believes that "we have to be in touch with our own spirituality" in order to effectively integrate spirituality into our practice. Owens adds that this self-awareness can help therapists identify and overcome biases they may have towards certain clients.

Using Your Practice as a Spiritual Practice

Jones argues that therapists can use their practice as a spiritual practice by focusing on the present moment and connecting with their clients on a deeper level. He believes that therapists can achieve this by using mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation. By doing this, therapists can become more attuned to their clients' needs and emotions, and create a more meaningful therapeutic experience. "Where is God moving in this person's life? How are they connecting with god?"

Owens adds that therapists should also focus on creating a safe and welcoming environment for their clients. This can include using welcoming language, offering tissues or water, and avoiding judgmental statements. Jones agrees, stating that creating a safe space is essential to building a strong therapeutic relationship.

Balancing Work and Personal Life

"Your spiritual life is happening all the time." Jones and Owens also discuss the challenges of balancing work and personal life, especially for therapists who are also parents. Jones shares his experience of starting a practice with his wife and renting an office space together to balance work and parenting. He believes that finding a "sweet mix" between professional and personal life is essential to creating a fulfilling career and family life.

Owens adds that self-care is essential for therapists, especially those who are parents. She suggests that therapists prioritize self-care by scheduling time for hobbies, exercise, and other activities that bring them joy.

Connecting with God's Spirit in Therapy

Whitney Owens and Russell Jones describe how their work is a conduit for God's Spirit. Whitney explains that therapy is about "working out our differences" and experiencing "love, healing, and compassion" with clients. Russell notes that when the spirit blows through someone's life, they may be hit hard by