Research & Insights
Psychology Approaches Through an Islamic Psychology Lens
Plain-language overviews of widely used therapeutic approaches and how they relate to Islamic spiritual care. General information only, not medical advice.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
A structured, goal-oriented therapy that explores the links between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. It is one of the most widely researched psychological treatments and is commonly used for depression, anxiety, and many other concerns. Clients typically learn practical skills, such as noticing unhelpful thinking patterns and testing new behaviours.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Part of the “third wave” of behavioural therapies. Rather than trying to eliminate difficult thoughts and feelings, ACT encourages accepting them while committing to actions guided by personal values. Its emphasis on values and meaning resonates with many themes in spiritual care.
Mindfulness-Based Approaches
Programs such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) teach present-moment, non-judgmental awareness. MBCT was developed specifically to help people who have experienced recurrent depression, and mindfulness practices are now widely integrated into healthcare and workplace wellbeing programs.
Trauma-Informed Care
A framework rather than a single therapy. It recognizes how common trauma is and emphasizes safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural sensitivity. Many hospitals, schools, and spiritual care settings now aim to work in trauma-informed ways. Trauma-specific treatments, such as trauma-focused CBT or EMDR, are delivered by trained clinicians.
Spiritually Integrated Care
There is growing interest in how spirituality and religion relate to coping and wellbeing. Many healthcare systems now include chaplains or spiritual care providers in interdisciplinary teams, and some therapists integrate clients’ spiritual values into treatment when clients wish it.
Digital & Telehealth Support
Video sessions became far more common in recent years and remain a popular, accessible option for consultation and spiritual care. Digital tools such as guided mindfulness apps are also widely used, although their quality varies and they are best viewed as a complement to, not a substitute for, professional care.
How this relates to Islamic spiritual care
Spiritual care shares some ground with these approaches, such as attention to values, meaning, presence and compassion, but it is a distinct form of support. When appropriate, Gulsen encourages clients to work alongside doctors, psychologists or consultants. For more, read Islamic consultation vs Muslim spiritual care and anxiety in Islam.