| Although death is a universal concept, the experience of it, the reaction to it, as well as the meaning of it, can vary depending on a person's ethnic and cultural background. Due to the growing number of Latina/os in the United States who possess and exhibit a strong Christian faith, this presents a need for a culturally responsive process of psychotherapy, with an appropriate integration of faith (i.e., focus on spiritual healing and coping) in the treatment as clients grieve the death of a loved one. Within religious practices, there are cultural norms and traditions that need to be respected. For many, religious faith also provides grounding and a sense of peace especially while facing painful obstacles in life. Although conflicts exist between the fields of theology and mental health in how to best help Christians, the evidence-based research that was critically reviewed for this dissertation, along with clinical input gained from professional experts, show that religious faith increases resilience which allows individuals to cope with difficult life circumstances. As such, it is essential for mental health providers to become trained in using their client's religious beliefs as a positive tool in therapy to foster resilience and strength in Latina/o clients who are experiencing grief. The implications in treatment and clinical recommendations are also discussed. |
