Exploring Spirituality and Meaning in Therapy

As human beings, we are meaning-making creatures. We have an innate desire to make sense of our lives within the larger picture. Contemplating the uncertainty and impermanence of existence often raises some big existential questions. 

What is my life’s purpose?

​How do I live a meaningful life? 

How do I feel about my mortality? 

Who am I underneath my roles and responsibilities? 

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For most of recorded history - and still today for many people - these questions have been explored by organized religion guided by spiritual leaders and holy texts. For centuries, people have turned to faith-based teachings to understand their place within the cosmos and for guidance on how to live a moral life. Beyond being the source of clarity in an uncertain world, organized religion has served as an important pillar of community and social cohesion. The shared rituals, ceremonies, and practices of religion helped bind unrelated and isolated peoples.

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Over the past few centuries, particularly in parts of the Western world, there has been a move towards secularism, with a growing demographic who claim no religious affiliation at all. Several factors help explain this trend. Many people are having trouble reconciling their modern values with the rigid doctrines of faith based traditions. Others may struggle with the histories of these institutions or the power imbalance they inherently possess. For some, the religious explanations of the universe have simply become less convincing. 

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Many people today describe themselves as ‘spiritual but not religious’. For some, this might mean having a connection to something greater than themselves that isn’t bound by the structure of organized religion or narrowness of scientific materialism. 

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For those who grew up within a religious context, navigating changes in one’s beliefs and identity can be enormously complex. Even when someone realizes they no longer feel aligned with the religious values and practices they grew up with, stepping away from their community often evokes complicated feelings of shame, rejection, sadness, confusion, and relief. As humans, we are driven to seek belonging because our survival depends on it. Making a shift in this domain can have a profound impact. 

Why Meaning and Belonging Still Matter

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While organized religion may be losing some of its significance in certain parts of the world, the needs that it has historically fulfilled have not gone away. Whether or not someone is religious, we still need community, a sense of meaning, and connection to something greater than ourselves. It could be argued that much of the problems we collectively face are the result of not having these critical needs sufficiently met. 
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The research on spirituality and mental health is complicated due to the diversity of ways spirituality is practiced within their communities. For some people, a spiritual practice might help build resilience, connect with their heart, and find purpose. For others, spiritual matters have been a source of oppression, guilt, and shame throughout their lives. Both of these realities (and a million variations) exist and it’s important to appreciate the validity of these different lived experiences.

Exploring Spirituality in Therapy

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If your spiritual identity is a significant aspect of who you are, that part of you is welcome here. Whether you identify as religious, spiritual, or neither, therapy can provide a supportive place to explore how your beliefs and values shape your life. When faced with challenge and upheaval, people naturally look for answers regarding their purpose, significance, and identity. Questions such as “What gives my life meaning?” or “Why am I here?” can open up important pathways of self-discovery, connection, and intentional action.