The experience of spiritual self-care among Malaysian Counsellors: an exploratory study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Counselors in Malaysia rely on religious practices for self-care and personal growth, according to a previous study. This exploratory study used a descriptive phenomenological approach to interview four counselors with diverse religious beliefs who are engaged in crisis work. The study identified three key themes of spiritual self-care: 1) religious practice, 2) self-reflection, and 3) internalizing religious values professionally. The research suggests the need for increased religious competence among counselors and emphasizes the inclusion of religious competence as a requirement for crisis work deployment. It also highlights the importance of incorporating cultural aspects into counselor self-care education.