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Fatwa CenterFemale psychologist working with male clients
Question
I am, Alhamdulilah, currently enrolled in a Clinical Psychology (PhD) program in the United States, with the intention of providing much-needed individual and family psychotherapeutic services with an Islamic basis (and Da`wa) to Muslims insha Allah, in the future.However, as part of confidentiality practice in my training, I will need to meet with male clients for 1 hour sessions in sound-proof rooms with no windows and the door completely closed (not locked) and a "Do not Disturb" sign on the outside. I can't choose who my clients will be.I will be working in mental health agencies and hospitals, and expect to find similar conditions. I understand that being in a room alone with a male is Haram. How can I legally (Islamicly) perform my work? If so, on what basis or reason? If not, what steps can I take in order to make the situation Halal? Please support your answer with proofs!
Answer
Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds; and blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all his Family and Companions.
A woman should not stay alone with an alien man, no matter the reasons as this could lead to greater perversive acts and much temptation. The Prophet said: "No man should ever stay alone with an alien woman because Satan undoubtedly will be their third "companion". (Reported by Ahmad and Tirmizi). So, if you could during your studies avoid getting mixed with alien men, you should do so. During your practice you should restrict your services to females and children as this is permitted. If you are unable to continue your study except by staying alone with alien men or you could not limit your practice to females and children then we believe that what you are doing is unlawful. As you know no one is excused from doing prohibited acts except the one who is in dire need an under compulsion. Necessity is based upon actual need. You are not compelled to gain education in this field or to engage yourself in this field of work nor are Muslims in dire need of the study you mentioned.
However, we appreciate your enthusiasm and your desire to serve the Muslims and at the same time we would like to tell you that if doing so is possible within Islamic limits and within what suits the nature of women, then it should be gained, otherwise it is recommended to avoid it. If a woman loses any of her religion and commits what is prohibited then as a general rule of Sharia it is more worthy and appropriate to avoid what could cause harm than it is to attempt to do what could bring some benefit.
Allah knows best.
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