Rising Concerns of Antisemitism in Therapeutic Spaces
In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the increasing prevalence of antisemitism within therapy and mental health environments. This issue is not only affecting Jewish patients but also Jewish therapists who find themselves navigating hostile or biased spaces. The Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law has highlighted several cases where Jewish individuals have faced discrimination in mental health settings.
One notable example involves a Washington, DC-based therapist who refused to treat a Jewish patient who had recently moved to the US from Israel. Another case involved a psychologist who was doxxed and harassed online due to her identity as a Jewish Zionist. Additionally, a major mental health organization denied a Jewish affinity group, labeling its members as “privileged white supremacists.” These incidents reflect a troubling trend that is becoming more common in certain therapeutic circles.
Decolonizing Therapy and Its Impact
The movement known as “Decolonizing Therapy” has gained attention, particularly among those advocating for social justice. Founded by Dr. Jennifer Mullen, this approach posits that traditional therapy is rooted in colonial, capitalist, and Eurocentric values. Mullen argues that mainstream psychology and psychiatry are tools of oppression, and she encourages clients to embrace ancestral practices instead of relying on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), which she dismisses as the “dumb shit manual.”
While this movement lacks formal endorsement from peer-reviewed journals or universities, it has found a significant following. A simple web search reveals thousands of results, including discussions among therapists about how they are implementing decolonizing principles in their practice. Retreats such as “decolonizing mental health training” at the Mental Health Academy further illustrate the reach of this ideology.
However, the movement’s stance on Zionism has raised concerns. It often frames Zionism as a root cause of mental illness, linking it with concepts like genocide and colonialism. Social media posts from the Decolonizing Therapy platform frequently promote narratives that equate Zionism with oppression, suggesting that mental health liberation is tied to Palestinian liberation. Such perspectives can be deeply problematic, especially when they ignore the historical and cultural context of Jewish identity.
Antisemitism and the Challenge for Jewish Patients
The implications of these views are far-reaching, particularly for Jewish patients who may feel alienated or misunderstood in therapeutic settings. Some Jewish individuals have reported feeling pressured to change therapists due to the way they were treated. For instance, one psychotherapist posted on social media seeking advice on how to handle a client with strong Zionist beliefs. After the client expressed views that equated anti-Zionism with antisemitism, the therapist struggled with maintaining an unbiased approach.
Another therapist shared a similar experience, stating that they eventually referred the client because they could not remain impartial. These stories highlight the challenges Jewish individuals face in finding safe and supportive therapeutic environments.
Responses and Advocacy Efforts
In response to these issues, organizations like the Jewish Therapist Collective (JTC) have emerged to support Jewish clients seeking therapists who understand their unique experiences. JTC maintains a database of over 8,000 Jewish clinicians worldwide, allowing potential clients to filter based on various criteria, including religious background and areas of expertise.
Halina Brooke, a prominent figure in the mental health field, has spoken about the impact of these trends on Jewish clients. She noted that many Jewish individuals felt let down by existing professional bodies after October 7, leading to a surge in inquiries to JTC. The organization has become a vital resource for those seeking a safe space in the clinical setting.
As the conversation around mental health continues to evolve, it is crucial to address these underlying issues of bias and prejudice. Ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, receive equitable and respectful care remains a priority for the mental health community.