Many consider the theory of psychoanalysis the "grandparent of all psychotherapeutic methods" (Jones & Butman, 1991, p. 65). Although this theory has changed through the years, many still consider it a useful tool in psychotherapy and counseling. The focus of this paper will be to give a brief synopsis of this theory and to briefly comment on the spiritual and religious implications of it.
             This theory finds it roots in a man named Sigmund Freud (1856- 1939). He was a very learned man, who had studied under some brilliant innovators within the medical profession. One of which, was a man named Josef Breuer. He introduced Freud to the practice of treating people suffering from hysterical illness. Freud did not see much of a future or financial stability in this. He decided to study neurology and psychiatry. He worked with many patients suffering from neurological disorders. Eventually, Freud began to study under a doctor by the name of Jean Charcot, a famous neurologist and hypnotist. This man showed Freud the importance of the unconscious mind and how it related to symptoms of illness. Although Freud later doubted the benefits of hypnotic suggestion, the time spent with Charcot left an indelible impression upon this young doctor.
             As time went on, other writers such as: Nietzsche, Spinoza, Borne, and Darwin influenced Freud. Borne was instrumental in Freud developing the technique of free association, but it was Josef Breuer that helped him further refine it. This involved encouraging patients to relax on a couch in order to produce more free flowing associations. They were encouraged to report whatever came to their mind. This resulted in the patient recalling forgotten events, feelings, emotions, or fantasies.
             Eventually, Freud came to belief that the traumatic events that caused hysteria occurred in the childhood stage of development and...