ABSTRACT

This chapter focuses on issues of training and competency in R/S in therapy. First, we consider various competency lists regarding R/S in counseling (e.g., ASERVIC, APA Division 36). We discuss how each of these competencies relates to a dimension of the ways paradigm, highlighting the relative neglect of ways of being. Next, we discuss how competence is assessed for as well as some of the empirical evidence for R/S competence as a unique area of multicultural competence. We then draw upon models from interreligious dialogue and broaching difficult topics in counseling for ways in which we can encourage respectful conversation and critique in a pluralist classroom. We end by drawing attention to the fact that R/S competence is an evolving field of study with open questions for future investigations to explore.