Question: I would like to find a therapist or psychiatrist who understands the religious lifestyle and respects that. I would like to talk to someone about some issues. But whenever I have tried in the past, I can tell that people think there is something wrong with me and tries to talk me out of being religious. My friend sees a therapist who is a Christan, but I really want to talk to someone about medication, not just counseling.
Anne Fenton, MD: There are professionals who share your beliefs, and understand that spiritual health is at least as important for sound mental health as are social, emotional, and physical health. For a list of such like minded counselors and doctors in your area, consult your local religious organization. You are absolutely right that tampering with one’s religious beliefs can be as seriously detrimental to one’s health as religious sensitivity, awareness, and belief can be of incomparable therapeutic benefit.