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The Gift That Keeps on Giving: Culturally Relevant Integration of Spirituality in Family Therapy With African American Families

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Part of the book series: AFTA SpringerBriefs in Family Therapy ((BRIEFSFAT))

Abstract

The connection between spirituality and health and social/emotional well-being is well established. While the majority of the U.S. population describe themselves as spiritually oriented, many believe the importance they place on spirituality will be disregarded or viewed negatively by therapists. Hines argues that to advocate for and conduct culturally relevant, effective engagement, assessment and intervention, especially with African Americans and other populations of color who historically have faced social, economic and political oppression, requires the integration of spirituality. Offering observations that are clearly linked to her rearing in the Protestant traditions as well as her own spiritual and cultural journey and family therapy practice, the author shares examples of strategies that have helped her clients to actively integrate their spiritual beliefs and practices into their daily lives, strengthen their resilience, and resolve personal and relational challenges.

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Hines, P. (2018). The Gift That Keeps on Giving: Culturally Relevant Integration of Spirituality in Family Therapy With African American Families. In: Trimble, D. (eds) Engaging with Spirituality in Family Therapy. AFTA SpringerBriefs in Family Therapy. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-77410-7_4

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