Here are some comments posted on that column fyi. They are on that site under comments.
I find nothing therapeutic about the advice Ms. Richardson dispensed in this instance, unless the newspaper took extensive editorial license with the story and omitted many of the details. Instead of educating the young man on the many possible reasons for such behavior, it appears as though this particular licensed therapist is not imaginative, helpful or very experienced. The story serves as an excellent example how a university degree and state license may not translate into useful guidance and perhaps this also serves to educate the public at large to remain skeptical when beginning psychotherapeutic counseling. I have seen far better responses from the likes of Ann Landers and Dear Abby, so at least this Correspondent has something to aspire to
Kelly Richardson's response does not take the naturist sister's lifestyle into consideration at all. Suggesting she practice her naturism when she is alone or just in her room could either send a message to the girl that there is something wrong or shameful about a very natural lifestyle or even worse, suppress her practice of naturism. While most naturists, in general do not want to make others uncomfortable, the boy should be taught that A) there is nothing inherently shameful or shocking about the human body, and B) there are people who choose to live without clothes. Taking Ms. Richardson's advice could lead to the boy concluding that naturism is bad. This leads to the making of a citizen who will be prejudiced against naturists and vote for representatives who will close naturist parks and beaches. I believe a compromise would have better served the family. Yes, out of respect to the boy, there should be times when no nudity is allowed. But out of respect to the daughter, there should be times when she can live as a naturist. If the boy chooses to stay in his room during those times, that would be up to him. This way they both share the house. The boy learns there is nothing wrong with naturism. The girl learns that while she has the right to be nude, she has the responsibility to make an effort to not offend others.
Surprised to find Kelly's response to this question so unutterably negative. We might normally hope for our therapists to be openminded to different lifestyles, and yet her advice sounds based almost upon personal offense at the choice made by the sister in this case. In our society it is perhaps understandable Embarrassed Brother feels they way he does, but in failing to explain why his sister may enjoy being naked around the house Kelly's reply falls short of being anything worthwhile, indeed the boy really deserves better than being told his sister is an unforgivable weirdo.
So I dearly hope Ms Richardson's uncompromising advice won't cause unwarranted hostility for the family involved, and may I suggest she take this as an opportunity to educate herself about naturist lifestyles and nudity.
