Interdisciplinary Perceptions and Supportive Care for Biblical Framework Counseling (BFC) Clients

Abstract Spirituality is considered important for culturally sensitive, patient-focused care. Still, there may be limitations with spiritual care delivery or guidelines. The study explores interdisciplinary perspectives on supportive care for individuals encountered who choose a biblical framework intervention for mental health treatment. A qualitative literature synthesis was conducted, and an online survey with an open-ended anonymous questionnaire were used to review a case described by a Biblical Framework Counseling (BFC) provider. Various providers identified in the literature utilized religious/spiritual (R/S), medical and/or psychological monotherapy, or integrated interventions. Fifty-four multidisciplinary professionals were surveyed, and responses analyzed. Preliminary themes included willingness to coordinate care for individuals with biblical beliefs, the capacity to which health professionals would provide care, and perceptions of BFC efficacy. R/S care was reportedly integrated as a part of a holistic approach; regular follow-ups or ethical hand-off/referral for BFC clients was considered due to provider comfort level with BFC monotherapy, perceived relapse potential, with ongoing medication management, individual therapy, and spiritual maintenance recommended. The case revealed contrasts in BFC and nonR/S provider perspectives on pertinent mental health history and inferences. Significant client information for support were confirmatory diagnosis, symptoms, comorbidities, relevant childhood issues, faith-health beliefs, family history and genetics, medication and therapy adherence, substance use. Providers’ faith-health belief congruence with BFC clients and ethical decisionmaking should be considered. GME programs may consider these, as well as R/S intervention types and multidisciplinary provider scope of practice as options for clinician training.