General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: I know this is going to be unpopular but I am friends with and I understand many Trump supporters [View all]nolabear
(41,960 posts)I'm a therapist. Over the years I've seen and heard from people of all stripes, some of whom have thoughts and feelings I am absolutely opposed to. And there have been times when I frankly had to tell them that I couldn't work with them because they wanted help in justifying doing harm. But I have heard myriad stories of people being shamed for their inclinations and not once has it changed them. It has made people angry, guilty, isolated, avoidant, and myriad other things but it hasn't changed them.
I get how hard it is and not talking to someone can be the only way to deal with our own discomfort and guilt over not being able to create change or to work with someone whose thoughts are odious. And as I said firmly stating limits is important. But if the long term goal is to soften people's concrete ideas then being humane allows for something to change.
This is hard stuff. I'm glad WE can have the conversation!