Therapist bias shapes what clients hear in therapy sessions
August 23, 2026 at 6:08 AM MT · via Public Square Magazine · Summarized by Mormon News from original reporting

Vulnerable therapy clients may hear therapist endorsement of life decisions where therapists believe they are merely facilitating self-discovery, according to an analysis in Public Square Magazine. The piece examines how therapist bias can subtly shape client choices, particularly around religious identity and practice.
The author argues that therapists' own views about religion often influence client outcomes in ways that aren't acknowledged, even when therapists aim for neutrality. This becomes especially significant when clients are questioning religious commitments or navigating faith transitions.
The article raises questions about professional ethics and the extent to which therapy can ever be truly value-neutral, particularly on questions of meaning and identity.
Mormon News summarizes reporting from established outlets and always links to the original. See an error? Report it.
Related coverage
- Moore, Crosby debate data centers and Great Salt Lake in Utah's 2nd District
via KUER · October 14, 2026
- Elder Uchtdorf's influence on modern LDS Church examined in profile
via Salt Lake City Weekly · October 14, 2026
- Ex-Mormon creator examines LDS hostility to therapy in new video
via YouTube / Alyssa Grenfell · October 13, 2026
- 'Mormon Wives' star addresses domestic violence allegation on ABC
via ABC7 Los Angeles · October 10, 2026
From the Mormon News Podcast
- Nemo Goes Global, Mormon Stories Lawsuit Update & LDS Baby Bust - Mormon News 10.2.26 | Ep. 2204
Full episode and transcript · October 2, 2026
- LDS Retention Drop, Church Opposes Abortion Rights in Idaho, Nevada - Mormon News 9.25.26 | Ep. 2200
Full episode and transcript · September 25, 2026