About me
My name is Justin Friel, and I am a first-year student in the Joint PhD Program between The University of Denver and Iliff School of Theology. My research interest lies in exploring the interrelatedness and interdependence between culture, politics, and religion; and exploring the ways that shape the formation and performance of queer identity. I’m interested in pop culture, digital religion, Christian nationalism, literature, and psychology.
Before starting my PhD work, I worked full time as a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in sex therapy and spirituality. I continue my practice, though remotely, and find a lot of cross-pollination between these two spheres of my life.
& about this site
I envision this site functioning as a portfolio by showcasing my work, expertise, and experience. I also see it operating as a lab where I can experiment with new ideas, theories, and perspectives, a space where I can discover what works, what might work, and what needs to be shelved.
The image to the left is a portrait of me titled “To be Holy” and is by @almeidaagain whose work you can find on Instagram