The professional credo of an ultra-orthodox psychotherapist.
The somewhat unorthodox working guidelines and professional attitudes of an ultra-orthodox (UO) psychotherapist are presented. Despite relatively low status in the UO society, the UO therapist can contribute much to UO society: by enhancing individuals' religious, as well as, general functioning, and by serving as a consultant to rabbinical and community leaders. Ensuing from the centrality of religion in the therapist's life, usual therapy norms and parameters may be abrogated or modified in the direction of increased stringency (eg, in avoiding sexual misconduct and subtle forms of "robbery") or leniency (eg, extra-therapeutic helpfulness). It is noted that secular professionals who are knowledgable and respectful of religion are at no disadvantage in working with the UO. A culturally-sensitive approach is suggested when treating this population.
Buchbinder
J T
JT
North Jerusalem Community Mental Health Center, School Psychology Service, Emanuel, Israel.
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007557:Israel; D007599:Judaism; D008297:Male; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D011613:Psychotherapy; D012069:Religion and Psychology; D012945:Social Values