Madam, - Marie Murray writes an interesting article about the rash of murders in Ireland, and whether or not "evil" is at the root of them (Opinion, July 18th). For some reason she focuses on psychotherapists, saying they need to ask if they are reluctant "to name any behaviour as wrong" because they "have a duty to be non-judgmental".
While I believe that being non-judgmental towards my clients is a prerequisite for my work as a counsellor/psychotherapist, this in no way clouds my judgment or belief as to whether a particular action is right or wrong. I try not to judge or condemn the person, whatever their actions. How else could I work with them ?
She also says that psychotherapists "have an equal duty to consider if political correctness is serving society well". This is a question to be addressed by all members of society, rather than just by counsellors as we struggle to remain accepting of those we listen to. - Yours, etc,
URSULA O'FARRELL,
South Hill Park,
Booterstown,
Co Dublin.