Exploration of Roles and Contribution of Spiritual Care Practitioners in Mental Health: An Australian Study

Abstract

Mental health is inherently multidimensional, requiring a holistic approach to intervention that integrates various aspects of an individual's well-being. Spirituality, a vital component of mental health, remains under addressed in Australian mental healthcare. Spiritual care practitioners may play a key role in addressing spiritual needs in mental healthcare; however, their roles and contributions in this context remain unexplored in the extant literature. Bridging this gap, this study explores the potential role of spiritual care practitioners within mental health context. Using a qualitative research approach, this study engaged eight experienced spiritual care practitioners working in various mental health settings across Australia (n = 8). Through reflexive thematic analysis, the study identified and examined the practitioners' perspectives on their roles and contributions. The findings were summarised in three overarching themes: (1) Core values; (2) Unique contributions in mental health; and (3) Spiritual care practitioners in the mental health system. The study's findings suggest that by employing a person-centred approach, spiritual care practitioners can play a crucial role in mental health assessments and interventions. Their contributions include providing insights rooted in clients' unique spiritual beliefs, aiding in the discernment between spiritual experiences and psychopathological symptoms, advocating for clients' spiritual needs, and supporting the education of mental health professionals. The study also highlights the need for professional recognition of spiritual care practitioners and their greater integration within the mental health system.

Keywords: Chaplains; Mental health; Spiritual care; Spiritual care practitioners; Spiritual needs.

Fig. 1

Themes and subthemes