A new anatomy of spirituality: clinical and political demands the psychotherapist cannot ignore

Abstract

I begin with some general issues and problems of defining the ‘S’ word. Next, I present a contemporary anatomy of spirituality stressing connections to lived experience in society. The third section is on ‘responsibility’ and how that links to psychological, spiritual and political concerns. Finally, inevitably, given my Jungian background, I discuss the shadow of spirituality. Throughout I make connections to the clinical encounter and dialogue in psychotherapy.