Ann grew up in a queer household during the 1980s—her father, his partner, her mother, and sister all living under
Ann Russo wasn’t raised religious. In her words, “I wasn’t really raised deeply in the faith.” But her experience in
That single sentence from psychotherapist Ann Russo reflects her mission—supporting LGBTQIA+ clients from religious backgrounds through inclusive, identity-affirming mental health
Religious trauma remains an overlooked but deeply damaging experience for many people—especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community. Therapist and mental
The belief that embracing your full identity makes you “less” is one of the harmful lies religion ever told. That’s
“Religious trauma is a little bit different than other kinds of trauma because it really does impact your entire worldview,”
Religious trauma impacts more than just faith. It disrupts mental health, self-worth, and identity—especially for LGBTQIA+ individuals. “Why would God
“Mental health care is advocacy.” — Ann Russo Mental health advocate and clinical director Ann Russo is helping shape a
Many people misunderstand relationship preferences due to media portrayals. “There is so much empowerment in these communities,” Russo explains. “It’s
