“In Search of Truth?” Integrating Religious Consultation into CBT to Address Ambivalence: A Case Study
A case study conducted by Clinical Psychologist Hanne Nur Özçelik and Dr Taha Burak Toprak within our association has been published in the Clinical Case Studies journal. ‘The article, titled ‘In Search of Truth? Integrating Religious Consultation into CBT to Address Ambivalence: A Case Study’, examines the integration of religious consultation into the Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) process and the effects of this integration on the client’s improvement in anxiety, guilt, and internal conflicts.
This case study underscores the significance of value-based and culturally sensitive therapeutic interventions, illustrating how the integration of religious beliefs into therapy can exert a transformative influence on decision-making and the resolution of ambivalence. Ambivalence, defined as the simultaneous experience of conflicting feelings, thoughts and attitudes, is a significant condition that complicates decision-making processes and relationships.
In this case study, a young Muslim woman experienced intense anxiety and indecision because she was unsure of her religious responsibilities regarding maintaining her relationship with her father. During the therapy process, CBT was used in the initial stage to address anxiety and relationship issues, followed by consultation (shura) with a religious scholar, which was integrated into the process. This religious consultation helped the client clarify her values and resolve her internal conflict.
Consequently, there was a marked reduction in anxiety and depression levels, a decrease in repetitive thoughts, and a clearer, more forward-looking perspective was achieved. This case demonstrates that the careful integration of religious consultation into therapy can support recovery in clients with strong religious beliefs.
The full text of the article can be accessed via the link below.
