The Power of Advocacy: Ann Russo on Queer Theology and Inclusive Therapy

In her recent appearance on the podcast, In the Den with Mama Dragons, Ann Russo – therapist and mental health advocate – shared her transformative insights on queer theology, navigating therapy, and debunking harmful stereotypes about the queer community.

Known for her culturally sensitive approach to mental health, Ann Russo’s discussion provided listeners with profound perspectives on living authentically and finding support.

What Queer Theology Means for Ann

Ann’s exploration of queer theology stems from a deeply personal and professional place. For her, queer theology reimagines Jesus as a liberator, a social justice advocate, and a figure on the margins.

“Queer theology views Christ as for everybody,” she explained. “Christ wants us and fights with us.”

Drawing on her studies and experience, Ann presented Jesus as a symbol of inclusion and love, emphasizing his alignment with the struggles of marginalized communities.

“Jesus was a rebel,” Ann asserted. “I come from something called “High Christology,” where the idea of Jesus the Man evolves into Christ as a spiritual being, offering liberation and acceptance.” This framework allows queer individuals to see themselves reflected in the broader, inclusive message of Christianity that’s based on loving everyone. It also breaks away from narrow interpretations of scripture.

Ann recalled presenting on this topic at Boston College, where she explored “Christ as the Grand Marshal of Queer America,” a concept that challenges traditional views while promoting love and inclusion. While some reactions were mixed, Ann emphasized that the core of her message was about compassion and acceptance — values she integrates into her practice when it aligns with the client’s needs.

Finding the Right Therapist: Empowering LGBTQ+ Individuals

Ann also addressed the challenges LGBTQ+ individuals face in finding affirming mental health care. Highlighting the need for inclusivity in therapy, she encouraged listeners to advocate for themselves when seeking support.

“You have every right to ask questions,” she said. “Where did the therapist go to school? What do they specialize in? Have they worked with queer communities or religious communities? These are questions you have every right to ask.”

Ann’s advice counters the hesitation many feel when approaching therapy. While she understands how people have been conditioned to see therapists as the authority – and, therefore, are reluctant to question them – Ann wants people to know that “therapy is a joint endeavor.”

“If a therapist isn’t willing to meet you where you are,” Ann said, “they’re not the right fit.”

She shared a poignant story of a parent who sought therapy after struggling to accept their transgender child. Unfortunately, the first therapist shamed the parent instead of offering understanding, causing a delay in seeking further help.

“That parent came to me three years later, still carrying the fear of being shamed,” Ann recounted. “Therapy should be a space where everyone can process their feelings openly and honestly.”

Debunking Myths About LGBTQ+ Identity

One of the most powerful parts of Ann’s conversation was her debunking of harmful stereotypes about the queer community. Ann pointed out that issues such as substance abuse, high suicide rates, and STIs are often erroneously attributed to being LGBTQ+.

“It’s not the orientation,” she clarified. “It’s the rejection.”

Ann’s insight highlights the societal factors that contribute to these challenges. “The statistics are real,” she acknowledged. “But they stem from the stigma and rejection queer individuals face, not from their inherent identity.”

By shifting the narrative, Ann hopes to dismantle these misconceptions and create a more affirming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.

A Message of Empowerment and Authenticity

Ann Russo’s appearance on the In The Den with Mama Dragons podcast is a testament to her commitment to advocacy and empowerment. Through her discussions on queer theology, therapy, and the root causes of societal issues faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, she provided listeners with tools to navigate their own journeys.

At the heart of Ann’s message is a call to authenticity and self-advocacy. By encouraging individuals to embrace their identities, ask the right questions, and challenge harmful narratives, she continues to inspire change and foster understanding in the mental health landscape.

You can listen to Ann’s full episode on the podcast here. Feel free to reach out to her via the links on her website or click here to subscribe to her newsletter.

Published by Rain S.