Pastoral care for the head-injured: A biopsychosocial/spiritual perspective

This article discusses the pastoral role in the individual and family crisis of a head injury. A case study illustrates the nature and consequences of this widespread but little-understood injury. Physical, emotional, and spiritual consequences of this injury are discussed. Finally, this article describes four pastoral responses to head-injured victims and their families: helping the victim to speak the unspeakable, facilitating prayerful imagination, connecting therapeutic efforts among professionals, and advocating for the family with national and community head injury resources.Private Practice, 1542D Honey Grove Dr., Richmond, VA 23229.