A Vexing Practice Issue

The Setting: A residential addictions treatment center.

The Population: 8-16 mostly Caucasian, non-professional, middle-income adults, men & women, average age 24.
The Staff: Female Progam Director, Caucasian; 3 - 4 Clinicians, also Caucasian: 1 gay man, 1 straight man; 1 - 2 straight women; 5 para-professional technicians: 4 women, 1 gay man.

The Problem: Straight male counselor frequently feels like the 'token white heterosexual male'... Marginalized as a Christian... Unable to openly and honestly voice any positions/concerns/feelings/opinions re: "traditional family values"/morality/etc -- due to atmosphere & decorum of political correctness... While gay colleauge 'wears his sexuality on his sleeve': making frequent references to his "hobby"/"side-job" as a female impersonator at a local nightclub catering to the gay community... frequently "acting gay" and/or intentionally outrageous with female co-workers & some residents... on occasion almost "flirting" with gay para-professional staff member ...showing almost deferential/allowance for the occasional gay resident in treatment; while frequently speaking to other staff in obviously hostile/denigrating terms about the occasional "redneck christian" client in treatment

The Issue: Is it just me??? Or is there something wrong with this picture??? Does this seem appropriate? Do these behaviors seem healthy? How can/should/would one approach this issue??? Is there reason for concern here???

Let me say: I definitely DO NOT consider myself to be "homophobic." I work very well with ALL of our staff; and have worked VERY WELL with several gay clients. I am a fairly skilled clinician; and consider myself to be fairly well-adjusted & high-functioning. But I am deeply troubled & confused by what I believe are some very unhealthy (and potentially damaging) behaviors on the part of another clinician. Yet I am powerless to do anything to change the behavior; particularly under the circumstances of the program's estrogen-dominated atmosphere & environment. So I am reaching out (in desperation, really) for any feedback, support, insight, or suggestions... How can I best provide for/ensure the safety & recovery process of my clients; and also take care of myself in regard to this issue/situation? In nearly 15 years of professional practice, I have NEVER seen/heard of this issue addressed, anywhere. And I never imagined I would ever find myself in this position. Any assistance/constructive input would be appreciated!

Replies:

Re:A Vexing Practice Issue, by Da Friendly Puter Tech, 05/12/04 Re:A Vexing Practice Issue, by D B Sabo, 05/27/04 Re:A Vexing Practice Issue, by Da Friendly Puter Tech, 05/28/04 Re:A Vexing Practice Issue, by DBS, 06/01/04 Re:A Vexing Practice Issue, by Janice Burton, MA, 06/04/04 Re:A Vexing Practice Issue, by Mike , 05/22/04

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