Psychotic or Spiritually Transformed? Issues in Diagnosing and Treating Clients Reporting STEs

Summary

Although Spiritually Transformative Experiences (STEs) are usually interpreted as highly positive by experiencers, the integration of these experiences is often very destabilizing. Despite advances in research in the field of STEs, and the recognition of religious or spiritual problems as a potential diagnosis by the American Psychological Association, therapist knowledge and training is still below acceptable standards for care. This lack, coupled with the fact that there are similarities between spiritually transformative experiences and the symptoms of psychosis, leaves experiencers with very justified fears of being pathologized by those they turn to for help. The result is that experiencers often do not disclose STEs to mental health professionals, and those that do often feel more depressed, confused, and misunderstood than before they disclosed. What can we, as therapists, do to avoid this treatment failure? While there are similarities between psychosis and STEs, it is vitally important that a therapist understand the differences, especially in diagnosis and formulating treatment plans. Suggested therapeutic processes will be also be reviewed for consideration.

Presenter Bio

Kirsten Cameron is currently completing her PhD in Integral and Transpersonal Psychology at the California Institute of Integral Studies. She also graduated summa cum laude with a B.A. in Psychology, and holds a Masters of Business Administration. An experiencer herself, Kirsten has worked with many spiritual seekers and those integrating spiritual experiences in her private practice as an executive and personal coach accredited through MBI Coaching. She is also a certified Master Hypnotherapist, and a graduate of the first ACISTE Peer Support facilitator training. More information can be found at
www.Kirsten-Cameron.com.