Helping Outsiders of Islam Understand You

1. Yes, I live in America. Because I am able to freely and openly practice my faith, being a part of a minority religion isn't an issue. Furthermore, Islam is a continuation and perfection of the dominant religion in US. We are brothers in faith.

2. I completely identify myself as an American, however America, not unlike many other lands, is color conscious. Skin tone can impact opportunity and even safety to a lesser degree.

3. Total ambivalence. On the one hand, I think junk science, however I do appreciate the profound benifit a good counselor can have on a person's life.

4. I think that if I were in their shoes I'd likely be an Isamophobe as well. I believe once people personally know a Muslim family or co-worker their opinion of Islam and Muslims are more favorable. I would suggest they read "Muhammad: A Prophet For Our Time", by Karen Armstrong, or at least view her Ted Talk: "My wish: The Charter for Compassion".

5. Well given a choice I would select a counselor who shared my cultural and religious background. If I didn't have a choice I simply think it would take more secessions before we could make sustained progress.

I indeed wish you all the best, and welcome!

1.) Do you currently reside in the U.S.? If so, how do you feel being part of a minority religion in this country?
I do reside in the US, and I feel there is too much prejudice against Muslims.

2.) How has your religion and/or ethnicity played a role in your cultural identity? How do you see yourself in relation to other cultures/religions, for example, conservative Christian middle-class White culture?
I feel more and more excluded from daily life in the US. I feel I live in a hostile environment that does not want to change for the better.

3.) When you think of mainstream psychotherapy and counseling, what comes to mind...positive or negative associations? Why?
Positive. I have been to counseling and it has helped me through some tough times. However the therapist and the patient must click; not all counselors are created equal.

4.) What do you personally think of general outsiders who do not understand your religion or may misinterpret your beliefs with Islamophobia? If you could tell them something, what would you say?
I used to try and explain or educate... However, I have come to realize the issue is not lack of knowledge or lack of information; the issue is racism and prejudice... if I meet Islamophobia these days, I tell them to get lost...

5.) If you were to ever seek counseling, how would you feel in approaching your counselor who may have different views from your own?
If I am willing to talk, it is the counselors job to adjust to my views, not the other way around. If he/she does not or cannot, I go to someone who can...