Between faith, family, and community: clinical perspectives on how best to support Orthodox LGBQ+ clients

This article presents findings of a study designed to explore the perceptions of clinical therapists and those involved in pastoral care, in their work with LGBQ+ Orthodox Jews. A focus is placed on the strategies clinicians and those in other therapeutic roles employ to help these individuals navigate the complex balance of sexuality and faith. While this study focuses on a specific religious group, findings may offer insight to professionals working with individuals from other conservative faith traditions. The data on which this paper is based come from individual interviews held with a convenience sample of clinicians and those serving in pastoral roles, who have experience working with Orthodox and ultra-Orthodox LGBQ+ clients. Study participants offered insight about what it means to practice clinically with this population. The result was a series of rich narratives that revealed how clients navigate the tension between religious commitments and sexuality. Implications of study findings are discussed, highlighting the importance of practice approaches that center on accompanying clients on a journey rather than solution-focused interventions. Respondents emphasized that progress ought not be framed by how well clients integrate their two identities, or how close they are toward disclosure, but rather how well they tolerate psychosocial tension.