# British Muslims' perceptions of therapy with non‐Muslim therapists: A qualitative analysis of survey responses

## TL;DR

This study explores how British Muslims feel about receiving therapy from non-Muslim therapists and identifies barriers and facilitators to their engagement.

## Contribution

The study provides new qualitative insights into the unique perspectives of British Muslims regarding therapy with non-Muslim clinicians.

## Key findings

- Three main themes emerged: 'Fundamental differences', 'It's not worth the risk', and 'Overcoming barriers'.
- Participants highlighted interpersonal and systemic tensions affecting therapy engagement.
- The findings suggest the importance of addressing faith and relational concerns in clinical practice.

## Abstract

Accessing psychological therapy presents unique challenges for Muslims, who are underrepresented in primary care mental health services in the United Kingdom. This qualitative study sought the narratives of British Muslims to gain insight into the perceived barriers and facilitators to engagement with therapy.

Eighty participants responded to an online free‐text survey question enquiring about their views on therapy with a non‐Muslim therapist after completing a short experimental study. A structured tabular approach grounded in reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse data.

Three main themes were identified in our analysis: ‘Fundamental differences’, ‘It's not worth the risk’ and ‘Overcoming barriers’. Within these themes we explore perceived interpersonal and systemic tensions, as well as facilitators to engagement with psychological therapy.

These findings are discussed in terms of implications for clinicians working with Muslim clients, with a focus on the importance of understanding and attending to faith and relational concerns.