THE PROFESSIONAL CREDO OF AN ULTRA-ORTHODOX PSYCHOTHERAPIST

The somewhat unorthodox working guidelines and professional attitudes of an ultra-orthodox (UO) psychotherapist are presented. Despite relat ively low status in the UO society, the UO therapist can contribute mu ch to UO society: by enhancing individuals' religious, as well as, gen eral functioning, and by serving as a consultant to rabbinical and com munity leaders. Ensuing from the centrality of religion in the therapi st's life, usual therapy norms and parameters may be abrogated or modi fied in the direction of increased stringency (eg, in avoiding sexual misconduct and subtle forms of ''robbery'') or leniency (eg, extra-the rapeutic helpfulness). It is noted that secular professionals who are knowledgable and respectful of religion are at no disadvantage in work ing with the UO. A culturally-sensitive approach is suggested when tre ating this population.