Date of Submission

2006

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D., ABPP

First Advisor

Virginia Salzer, Ph.D., Chairperson

Second Advisor

Bruce Zahn, Ed.D., ABPP

Third Advisor

James McMahon, Psy.D., Ph.D.

Abstract

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is the most often diagnosed psychiatric illness worldwide, with prevalence rates indicating that as many as 25% of the population during their lifetimes will experience symptoms of MDD (Holmes, 1997). Therapies that focus on restructuring the client's cognitions have been shown to be effective in the treatment of this disorder. For some clients, however, reoccurring depressive episodes are common and symptom reduction is infrequent. The research of Worthington (1988) suggests that the highly religious client may actually see the world in a uniquely differently way than does the non-religious. These individuals utilize more religious schema and as a consequence of this distinct perspective may experience more favorable treatment outcomes when the therapeutic approach supports their strongly held religious views (Worthington, 1988; Worthington & Sandage, 2001). This single case study will utilize archival data and a manualized approach that focuses on spiritual growth and symptom reduction through an integrated cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) approach. The findings of this study confirm the work of many integrative researches that suggest symptom reduction is more apparent when an integrative approach is applied rather than a non-integrative approach.

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