Spiritually-augmented CBT techniques as an adjunct to traditional CBT in a case of depression

Pages:433-434
Parisha Jijina, Ruchi Varma and Vibha Sharma (Department of Clinical Psychology, Institute of Human Behaviour & Allied Sciences, Delhi)

Human beings are multi-dimensional with body, mind, soul and heart. Mental health professionals are becoming ever more aware of the need of all human beings for a sense of meaning in their life. Spiritually augmented cognitive behaviour therapy goes beyond the dualism of mind and body as in traditional CBT (Cognitive-behaviour therapy). This approach is being increasingly used in diverse settings with a variety of faith groups to address a wide array of problems. In this case report, we present a case of a young adult who was experiencing a lack of meaning and purpose in his life and was diagnosed with Depression. Traditional cognitive-behaviour therapy for Depression was provided and since he was spiritually inclined, spiritually augmented CBT techniques were also used as an adjunct. These techniques focussed on helping the client increase his Self-awareness, developing Gratitude and inculcating a Non-judgemental attitude. Also, connecting with Mother Nature and Imagery techniques such as Inner Sanctuary were applied to help the client relax. Post-therapy, significant improvement was noted in depressive features as was evident on both objective and subjective reports. The client was also taking initiative to explore options about finding meaning in his life. Thus, based on the client’s objective and subjective report it was concluded that spiritually augmented CBT was a beneficial and valuable adjunct to traditional CBT in this particular case of depression.