Discussing Religion in NHS Talking Therapies
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Discussing Religion in NHS Talking Therapies: A Mixed-Methods Study of Therapists’ and Service Users’ Perceptions and Experiences
IRAS ID
348432
Contact name
Hira Sharif
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 4 months, 7 days
Research summary
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the main psychological approach used to address mental health difficulties in NHS Talking Therapies services. A key part of CBT is exploring a person’s core beliefs (deeply held views about themselves, others, and the world, often shaped by life experiences). Research shows that the formation of these beliefs is influenced by one’s culture, including their religious and/or spiritual values. Therefore, it is important to consider how much individuals wish to discuss their religious values in a therapeutic setting in order to determine whether and how they should be included into their treatment plans.
This study examines whether therapists and patients (service-users) agree on how important it is to address religious values in therapy. It uses a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys and interviews. The study will:
1. Look at how therapists in Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust (OHFT) Talking Therapies services view the importance of discussing religion in therapy and how they think it affects the trust between therapist and patient (called the therapeutic alliance) and the perceived effectiveness of treatment (treatment credibility).
2. Compare therapists’ views to those of their patients.
3. Interview therapists about their experiences of talking about religion during therapy sessions.If the study finds that therapists and patients have different views, it might suggest problems for the therapeutic relationship (the trust and understanding between them). These findings could lead to recommendations for improving how OHFT Talking Therapies services approach their work with religious service-users, ensuring that therapy feels more supportive and relevant for this client group.
REC name
South Central - Hampshire B Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/SC/0096
Date of REC Opinion
11 Apr 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion