The Evolution of Islamic Spiritual Care and Counseling in Ontario in the Context of the College of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Mental Health Therapists of Ontario

Nazila Isgandarova

Abstract

This article highlights some significant aspects of the new regulations and the benefits of the College of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Mental Health Therapists of Ontario (CRPO) in regards to the spiritual care and counseling practice of Muslim spiritual caregivers and imams. Currently, not all chaplains, spiritual care providers, and pastoral counselors, including Muslim spiritual caregivers in Ontario need to register in the College. Nonetheless, the scope of the practice of Muslim spiritual caregivers and imams includes the practice of counseling and psychotherapy. Therefore, Imams, and other Muslim spiritual caregivers may decide to join the new College in order to engage in the practice of psychotherapy in an ethical manner.