Queerly Beloved: Interview with Ann Russo Founder of AMR Therapy

In this interview with Ann Russo, Ann shares her experience growing up in a queer household, exploring Christian theology, and working in religious trauma therapy. We discuss how religious shame and purity culture shape sexuality and self-worth, why autonomy, agency and boundaries matter in healing, and how sex positivity and communication support healthy relationships. We further discuss affirming religious spaces, Evangelical deconstruction, and Ann's upcoming book about religious trauma.

Bio:

Ann Russo, LCSW, is the founder and Clinical Director of AMR Therapy, a California-based practice providing inclusive, trauma-informed mental health care. She is dedicated to identity-affirming, culturally responsive therapy that honors clients' lived experiences, with a particular focus on LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities and people exploring non-traditional relationships and identities. Through AMR Therapy, Ann leads a team supporting individuals, couples, families, and groups in a welcoming space where everyone can feel understood and accepted.

Links:

www.amrtherapy.com

www.annrusso.org  

Key Topics

• Growing up in a queer household outside purity culture
• Christianity, faith deconstruction, and religious trauma
• The impact of religious shame on sexuality and self-worth
• Autonomy, boundaries, and healing
• Sex positivity and healthy relationships
• Religious trauma therapy and queer-affirming faith communities