Dissent from Freud
For more than a century, psychology has often treated spirituality as an illusion, a symptom, or a private concern with little relevance for mental health. My work has followed a different path. Dissent from Freud is an ongoing conversation about what psychology can become when it embraces the best of science together with the wisdom of the world’s great spiritual traditions.
Why “Dissent from Freud”?
In my own life and in my family, I discovered that faith and spirituality can be powerful resources for coping, healing, and flourishing. These experiences, together with my work as a psychologist and researcher, stood in sharp contrast to Sigmund Freud’s belief that religion was largely an illusion and an obstacle to psychological health. As scientific research accumulated over the course of my career, I became increasingly convinced that Freud’s conclusions were mistaken. Dissent from Freud invites you to explore the growing body of scientific research that supports a more hopeful view—one in which mature faith and spirituality can contribute to mental health, healthy relationships, and human flourishing.
Join the Conversation
BLOG
Brief Psychology Today blog articles on current research findings and clinical insights about spiritually integrated psychotherapy.
PODCAST
Short podcast conversations exploring historical and current perspectives about psychology and spirituality.
MEMOIR
The inspiring story of Scott Richards’ lifelong search for the soul of psychology and leadership in the Dissent from Freud movement.
DOCUMENTARY
A forthcoming film documentary about the global movement to bring spirituality back into mainstream psychology and psychotherapy.
YouTube
Video clips from conversations with leading psychologists, clergy, and public figures about spirituality and psychotherapy.
More Than a Personal Journey
Dissent from Freud is not simply my story. It represent a growing international movement of psychologists, researchers, educators, pastoral professionals, and mental health clinicians working to integrate spirituality into evidence-based health care.
Looking for Resources?
While Dissent from Freud shares ideas about spirituality and psychology with the public, the Bridges Institute provides educational, training, and research resources to help mental health professionals put them into practice.