Research Portfolio Submitted in Part Fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctorate in Clinical Psychology

: (Alternative Format Thesis) 1) Therapists' Experiences Integrating Clients’ Religion and Spirituality into Therapy: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Research; 2) Examining Admission Rates: Ethnic Minority Representation in Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programme at the University of Bath; 3) Therapy Without Faith: Muslim Clients’ Experience on Religious Exclusion and Minimisation in Therapy.

Abstract

Objective: Religion for many individuals is a central part of their identity and yet it is insufficiently explored in psychological therapy. This qualitative study aimed to capture the experience of Muslims that have attended therapy and felt that their religion was either excluded or minimised in the therapy session.

Design: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty-five people, aged 18-56 years. Interviews were recorded on Teams and transcribed, before being subjected to thematic analysis.

Results: Three overarching themes were generated through the analysis: self censorship, shaking my foundation and feeling compelled to choose between therapy and faith. Participants described significant emotional impact when Islam was excluded or minimised.

Conclusion: The findings suggest a need for enhanced cultural competence training and systemic changes to improve the therapeutic experience for Muslim clients. This study offers insight for developing more inclusive and effective mental health practices as well as implications for clinical practice.

Date of Award	10 Sept 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bath
Supervisor	Paul Chadwick (Supervisor)