A New Vision for the Physician-Patient Relationship: Integrating Spiritual, Intuitive, and Holistic Dimensions
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This chapter presents a comprehensive framework for reimagining the physician-patient relationship as a sacred, transformative encounter that integrates neurobiological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of healing. Drawing upon the author's extensive body of work spanning from neurobiology and trauma research to theological reflections and clinical practice innovations, it articulates a vision that transcends the limitations of the current biomedical model. The framework addresses the crisis of fragmentation in contemporary healthcare by reclaiming intuition and imagination as legitimate modes of clinical knowing, recovering the spiritual dimension of the healing encounter, and reconceptualizing the therapeutic relationship as a covenantal bond rather than a contractual transaction. The chapter situates this integrative approach within the broader scholarly landscape, contrasting it with traditional biomedical ethics, narrative medicine, and technological approaches to healthcare. It offers practical pathways for implementing this vision through educational reform, systemic changes, and support for physician grief work. By addressing both the philosophical foundations and practical implications of a transformed therapeutic relationship, this chapter contributes a unique transdisciplinary perspective to ongoing efforts to humanize healthcare and restore meaning to the healing professions.
Author: Julian, Ungar-Sargon
Institution: Dominican University
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W6949428945
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