In working with Muslim communities as a volunteer spiritual counselor and a para-professional in the field of social work for two decades, the author has noticed some recurring patterns in mental health issues among Muslim women. These observations are based on her experience and on discussions with Muslim and non-Muslim professional and non-professional service providers.

Most often Muslim women resist seeking help from mainstream providers for fear of being stereotyped or misunderstood. They believe that the helper's lack of knowledge of the Isla…