Islam 101: Understanding the religion and therapy implications

Abstract

How familiar are you with the religion and cultural aspects of Islam and with Muslim clients? As a psychologist, you likely will work with a Muslim client, given the growing number of Muslims in America. Yet very little psychological research or literature discusses Muslim clients or their experi-ences. This article provides some foundational information psychologists will need to work effectively with Muslim clients. An overview of the Muslim American community, including cultural values, gender role expectations, behavioral prescriptions, and immigration issues relevant in counseling and therapy, is provided. A case example illustrates how clinicians can effectively incorporate cultural aspects of Islam in their work in order to be culturally competent when working with Muslim clients. Since September 11, 2001, many Americans have found them-selves asking, “Who are Muslims? ” and “What is Islam? ” Media outlets attempted to address questions regarding Muslims and the Islamic faith but have not been able to clarify the numerous assumptions and misunderstandings about this diverse community. Because many questions are still unanswered, assumptions and misunderstandings may affect the work of non-Muslim psycholo