Integrating Cognitive Behavioural and Islamic Principles in Psychology and Psychotherapy: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Standardisation of knowledge has become a by-product of globalisation, and western-based models are often seen as the ultimate answer to expertise and development. In light of this, some professionals have debated the feasibility of employing cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with Muslim communities. Debates have focused on CBT’s secular roots and its compatibility with a world where Islam permeates most aspects of life. This article highlights some of the theoretical dilemmas of integration and suggests ways to bridge the existing gap between secular and Islamic literature and avoid alienating those individuals who might feel uncomfortable with secular CBT teachings.

Evaluation of Stories of the Prophets in the Holy Qur'an Based on Existential Therapy

“…The findings of the study will be beneficial in existential therapy studies for Muslims around the world. A scholar examining existential counseling from an Islamic perspective stated that the Qur'an can be useful when counseling Muslim clients within the framework of existential theory (Abu-Raiya et al, 2018;Abu-Raiya et al, 2019;Cucchi, 2022). Note that while all the prophets of Islam are male (including those considered in this article), a study has shown that existential therapy also has a positive effect on women's rumination and awareness (Rezapour-Mirsaleh et al, 2022).…”

The effectiveness of an Islamic couple therapy approach to reducing marital envy and enhancing psychological well-being in distressed Muslim couples.

“…Because many therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, have secular origins, their application to Muslim countries is a major problem, and therapeutic approaches must be adjusted to the needs of clients. Globalization’s effects on how psychological distress is perceived and treated need greater efforts to recognize and incorporate cultural components into psychological and psychotherapy treatments (Cucchi, 2022). Therapy content and therapist characteristics are some examples which Muslim clients have problem with them in the secular perspective in therapies (Weatherhead & Daiches, 2010) and many studies emphasis on religious psychotherapies and culturally appropriate couple interventions (Abbott et al, 2012; Hedayat-Diba, 2014; Weatherhead & Daiches, 2010).…”

The Intervention of Religious Mental Guidance Based on Islamic Education Management in Social Rehabilitation

“…It is stated, "In our paradigm of Islamic Counseling, these concepts are derived from the Islamic Science of the Self (Nafsiyat), which was developed in Tasawwuf and included the concept of repairing the heart. In this framework, people are more than the sum of their bodies and minds (Cucchi, 2022). When problems arise, we often cannot solve them with our minds or bodies, so we must seek understanding by opening our emotions.…”