HEALTH

How Faith Talks Can Help Teens in Therapy

NetherlandsTue Jul 29 2025

In the Netherlands, a novel method to integrate faith and therapy is being explored. Known as the Faith Relationship Interview (FRI), this approach involves teens and their therapists discussing beliefs, feelings about God, and the impact of faith on relationships.

The Study

  • Participants: 8 teens and 4 therapists
  • Outcome: Positive feedback from both groups

The teens reported gaining deeper insights into their views on God and how their faith influences their relationships. Therapists also found value in this approach, suggesting that the FRI could be a beneficial tool for Christian teens and therapists.

Potential and Questions

While the FRI shows promise, questions arise:

  • How effective would this be for teens of other faiths?
  • What about those who are not religious?

As the FRI gains traction, these are important considerations.

Conclusion

The FRI is still in its early stages, but it offers a promising step towards making therapy more personal and meaningful for those who value their faith.

questions

    How might cultural differences impact the effectiveness of the FRI in other countries?
    What specific aspects of the FRI contributed to the positive experiences reported by participants?
    How does the FRI address the potential for therapeutic harm if religious beliefs are challenged or invalidated?

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