The Soul of the Helper: Contemplating and integrating the intersection between spirituality and mental health
The intersection between spirituality and mental health has been a growing area of research over the last few decades. In this session, Dr. Oxhandler will discuss previous research in this area and present the quantitative grounded theory, Namaste Theory. She’ll explain how this research is not only relevant for mental health care providers and chaplains or faith leaders, but extends to everyday helpers, including parents, partners, teachers, administrators, health care providers, volunteers, and more. Finally, attendees will be introduced to the seven stages of seeking the Sacred from her new book, The Soul of the Helper, to contemplate the intersection of spirituality and mental health within their own lives as they serve others.
At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to
- Understand the intersection between spirituality and mental health
- Understand Namaste Theory and the research behind it
- Describe why caring for ourselves as helpers is critical in our efforts to care for others
- Describe the seven stages of seeking the Sacred from The Soul of the Helper
Agenda
12:00 Welcome and Introduction of Speaker
12:05 Presentation
12:50 Q&A
1:30 Adjourn
Biography
Holly Oxhandler is the Associate Dean for Research and Faculty Development and an associate professor at Baylor University’s Diana R. Garland School of Social Work. She has published several research articles on the relevance of religion and spirituality on mental health and psychotherapy, cohosts CXMH: A Podcast on Faith and Mental Health, and is author of The Soul of the Helper (2022).
ACPE: The Standard for Spiritual Care & Education has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7004. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. ACPE is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.