Celebrating our 50th Anniversary: IHI Honors Judy Clarke, LCSW
May 22, 2023 - NEW YORK.
In early 1973, a group of lesbian and gay therapists & peer counselors started Identity House. It's purpose was to offer short-term peer counseling to those seeking services.
Later, in June 1973, Charles Silverstein and Bernice Goodman wanted a center which would offer solely professional long-term psychotherapy services. They found it necessary to split from I-House and founded the Institute for Human Identity. It became the first and only professional therapy center in the country offering gay affirmative therapy. Clients came for a myriad of reasons, without having to be concerned IHI would want to change their sexual orientation or diagnose their homosexuality as a mental illness.
It became the premiere therapy center offering first-rate, affordable sliding-scale therapy. We developed a student/intern training program in social work and psychology. We were the only placement given permission to interview interested applicants. We have offered superior training: sending the graduates out to do the important work of helping those with mental health issues. Currently under assault, LGBTQIA people find our services of valuable help in these particularly stressful and politically toxic times.
In 1975, my then partner and I, met Bernice at a conference. She was starting a Lesbian Mother's therapy group. Again, the original and something which had not existed before. My partner would be attending. Bernice also recommended I apply to be a therapist at IHI. Shortly there after, I began my therapy career at IHI. Back in those days, you would work 3 hours a week for $3/session (no typo!!) This small beginning changed the trajectory of my life. I was free to practice my craft as a whole and authentic person. It was good modeling for those in need of shaking internalized homophobia.
Over the years, I continued to add to my hours at IHI. I became a member of our internal board, the Steering Committee, which oversees IHI's daily functioning. As was the liberation mode of the day, we did everything by consensus. I also held every possible position there. Besides a therapist, I've been clinical director, personnel director, supervisor, coordinator of intakes and supervision, and associate director. Following a crisis, this culminated in my becoming executive director.
I served as executive director from 1991-1996. During my tenure as ED, the crises had put us in some dark and scary times.
With Charles‘ help and staff cooperation, I was able to dig us out of financial ruin and the danger of shutting our doors. It is hard to imagine NYC without IHI!
I had acquired a health-challenging illness, but couldn't imagine leaving IHI. I wanted to continue to serve the organization, so I made the decision to step back and be associate director.
As history indicates, IHI has become the nexus for almost every LGBTQ and ally therapist and supervisor in NYC. They have all passed thru our doors. Along with the founders, many of us who worked there have authored books and articles. We became leaders in the advancement of LGBTQ clinical practice and research. We were the early pioneers who forged a path and continued establishing the legacy of the Institute.
Today we remain the nation’s oldest LGBTQIA therapy center serving a community of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Entering the next half century, we continue to thrive and expand.
I have decades-long collegial friendships which I foster and treasure. For all these years, we have been an IHI family.
I hold the Institute close to my heart. My time there has given me a sense of belonging, and a lasting part in making history.
I am truly honored to have served and championed IHI.
To the next 50!!
Judy Clarke, LCSW