A collaborative relationship between professional psychology and the RomanCatholic Church: A case example and suggested principles for success

For many years the professional psychology and religious communities have m aintained a strained relationship. At best, a passive indifference has been the norm. Fortunately, in some circles, the psychological and religious co mmunities have recently begun to develop more collaborative relationships. For some psychologists, religion and spirituality is now in vogue. The purp ose of this article is to detail one professional's experience in developin g a close working relationship with both clergy and parishioners of the Rom an Catholic Church and highlight useful principles for others interested in collaboration between psychology and religious communities. Hopefully, tho se who are interested in pursuing closer collaborative relationships with r eligious communities can benefit from the experiences and principles outlin ed here.