The Dangerous Influence of Politicized Therapy

The Dangerous Influence of Politicized Therapy

A troubling trend has emerged within the mental health profession: an overwhelming majority of therapists and psychologists are subtly—or not so subtly—influencing their clients’ political views rather than fostering independent thought. This practice, particularly when it involves pushing anti-American or destructive ideologies, or fixating on hate and division, is not merely unethical—it poses a direct threat to the fabric of society.

While these professionals may not wield weapons or engage in physical attacks, their actions make them enemy combatants, undermining the United States from within. The consequences of this trend are profound, and those who revel in such divisive tactics are setting the stage for far greater societal unrest than the issues they claim to be addressing.

Therapists and psychologists hold a unique position of trust and influence. Clients often come to them in vulnerable states, seeking guidance to navigate personal struggles, trauma, or mental health challenges. The therapeutic space is meant to be a sanctuary for self-discovery, where individuals can explore their thoughts and values free from judgment or coercion.

However, when therapists prioritize imposing their own political beliefs and views —whether progressive, conservative, or otherwise—they betray this trust. Instead of empowering clients to form their own views through critical thinking, these professionals exploit their authority to steer clients toward predetermined ideological outcomes.

This is not a hypothetical concern. Studies and anecdotal reports suggest that a significant number of mental health professionals allow their personal political biases to seep into their practice.

For example, a 2018 study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that therapists often struggle to remain neutral when clients express political views misaligned with their own, with some admitting to subtly encouraging clients to adopt their perspectives. When this bias leans toward anti-American sentiments, vilifies national institutions, or promotes narratives rooted in hate and division, the consequences extend far beyond the therapy room.

Particularly alarming is the growing trend of therapists promoting anti-American or destructive ideologies. These may include narratives that frame the United States as inherently oppressive, irredeemably flawed, or deserving of contempt.

While critical examination of history and policy is valuable, presenting a one-sided, hate-driven perspective that demonizes the nation and its values erodes the social cohesion necessary for a functioning society. Such rhetoric does not encourage constructive dialogue or reform; it fosters resentment, alienation, and a sense of hopelessness.

When therapists push these views, they contribute to a culture of division, pitting individuals against their own country and its citizens. This is not merely a philosophical disagreement—it is a deliberate act of sabotage against the shared values and trust that hold a nation together.

By framing America as the enemy, these professionals undermine the very society that enables their practice, creating a feedback loop of cynicism and hostility. This is especially dangerous when clients, already vulnerable, internalize these narratives without being encouraged to question or critically evaluate them.

The term “enemy combatant” is typically associated with armed conflict, but its essence lies in actions that actively seek to harm or destabilize a nation. Therapists who manipulate clients into adopting destructive or divisive ideologies are engaging in a form of psychological warfare. They may not carry guns or plant bombs, but their influence can be just as damaging. By eroding trust in institutions, fostering hatred, and amplifying division, they weaken the social contract that binds citizens together.

This is not to say that every therapist with strong political views is a threat. The issue arises when professionals prioritize ideology over their ethical duty to promote mental clarity and autonomy. The American Psychological Association’s ethical guidelines emphasize the importance of respecting clients’ autonomy and avoiding harm, yet the politicization of therapy violates these principles. When therapists act as ideological crusaders rather than neutral facilitators, they weaponize their influence, effectively acting against the interests of a stable, cohesive society.

Those who delight in undermining the political views of their ideological opponents are playing a dangerous game. By focusing on hate and division, they amplify societal tensions, creating a powder keg of resentment and mistrust. The issues they perceive—whether systemic injustices, cultural shifts, or political disagreements—are real and deserve attention. But addressing them through manipulation and divisive rhetoric is like treating a wound with poison. It may feel satisfying in the moment, but it festers, spreading infection rather than healing.

The ripple effects of this approach are already visible. Political polarization in the United States has reached historic highs, with Pew Research Center data from 2024 showing that 80% of Americans view the other political side as a “threat to the nation’s well-being.” Therapists who contribute to this polarization by pushing clients toward extreme or divisive views are not solving problems—they are exacerbating them. The resulting societal fragmentation risks escalating into deeper conflict, whether through civil unrest, eroded democratic norms, or a breakdown in communal trust.

The mental health profession must confront this crisis head-on. Therapists and psychologists need to recommit to their role as facilitators of independent thought, not purveyors of ideology. Training programs should emphasize neutrality and critical thinking, equipping professionals to handle their biases responsibly. Clients, too, must be empowered to seek therapists who respect their autonomy and prioritize their well-being over political agendas.

For those therapists who revel in pushing anti-American or divisive narratives, a warning: your actions have consequences beyond the therapy room. By sowing discord and undermining the values that hold society together, you are not just careless with your hate—you are setting the stage for a fractured nation. The issues you claim to address are serious, but your approach risks creating far greater problems than those you seek to solve. It is time to step back, reflect, and choose a path that heals rather than divides. The future of our society depends on it.