SLBMI Psychology and Religion Program>> Psychology and Religion Program FAQs

Is the Program for Psychology and Religion strictly for clients in the intensive program?

No. There are six major treatment divisions; the intensive program is just one of them. One division specializes in short-term and focused programs. Another utilizes individual and group psychotherapy. We are not a “one size fits all” center.

Do you see just men?

No. We work with women in all divisions of the Program. We strive to keep our intensive program in balance, which benefits both genders.

Where do clients who come from outside the St. Louis area stay when they enter the intensive program, a special program, or an aftercare program?

Clients who come from other cities, states or countries stay in local parishes, convents, or monasteries, often continuing to practice a sacramental ministry.

How long do clients typically remain in treatment?

The length of treatment varies entirely upon the particular need of the individual. The length of care ranges from one-week for those who come only for evaluation and recommendations, three to four months for those who enter a special, focused program, to four to eight months for those who enter the intensive program.

Is the program only for Catholic priests and religious?

Although many of our clients are Catholic clergy or religious, we also work effectively with other denominations and other faith traditions.

How is spirituality integrated in your psychological approach?

In the Program for Psychology and Religion, we integrate the spiritual dimension of the problem and the solution into all phases of a client’s work. Spiritual directors play a critical role in both the assessment and treatment phases. Individual meetings with a personal spiritual director and participation in a spirituality group are integral components of the program. Additionally, our staff members have diverse, unique backgrounds; some hold advanced degrees in dual disciplines and some are members of religious congregations. All members of the team are trained in respect for religious faith, recognition of spiritual issues, and the importance of scientific research as the foundation of psychological evaluation and care.

Do you involve religious leadership in treatment and planning?

Religious leaders are closely involved from the evaluation of their member to the recommendations for aftercare at the conclusion of treatment. Regular contact with leadership is a part of any extended treatment plan.

What happens when clients return home after intensive treatment? How do you prevent relapse?

For any client who has come to the Program from a distance, effective treatment after an intensive or special program must consist of follow-up visits to the Institute. If this is not possible, we offer phone and e-mail psychotherapy as a level of aftercare. When our clients leave, they do so with specific recommendations for treatment, spiritual direction, self-care, social support and supervision. These recommendations are particular to the individual.

The aftercare visits with Program for Psychology and Religion personnel occur at four to six month intervals until there is confidence on the part of staff and leadership that the client has developed a supportive and effective network in his or her place of ministry.

Do you offer a program specifically designed to address health issues including physical well-being, weight management and nutrition?

Yes, the Weight Management Program of SLBMI is the first intensive outpatient program to address the unique health and wellness needs of the religious community. The entire Weight Management Program team works together to determine the most effective way in which to meet the needs of each patient through group and individual therapy, medical management, nutritional counseling, exercise and lifestyle change.