Counseling for Religious Abuse
Counseling for Healing Spiritual Trauma, Deconstructing Theology, Recovering Faith, and Reconstructing Spirituality
Many people turn to religion and faith in times of hardship. When you’re in need of guidance, it can be comforting to consult with and trust a higher power. However, pain can lead to vulnerability, which can be weaponized and abused in a religious context.
“I was raised as a conservative evangelical and was a Family Pastor in Charismatic Christian Church. I have since deconstructed and reconstructed my theology and spirituality. As a licensed therapist, it is my honor to help others find healing and reclaim their unique spirituality through personalized guidance and support.” - Valinda Harlan (she/her)
What is Religious Abuse?
Religious abuse, or spiritual abuse, is a form of abuse that occurs in religious or spiritual environments and communities. Religious abuse may be perpetrated by religious leaders, congregation members, family, friends, and partners.
At first, religious abuse may be difficult to recognize or accept. However, not addressing the negative impacts on your physical, emotional, mental, sexual, or spiritual health can result in long-lasting trauma.
Understanding Religious Trauma
Religious trauma occurs when one’s religious experience is stressful, degrading, dangerous, abusive, or damaging. This can significantly impact mental health and well-being.
Signs of religious trauma include:
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Difficulty making decisions
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Difficulty building strong relationships
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Struggle to belong due to unfamiliarity with mainstream culture
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Decreased sense of self-worth
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Cognitive dissonance between what you were taught in your religious community vs. what you learned through your own research
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Betrayal trauma from a toxic religious environment or leader
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Anxiety and depression
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Feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or fear
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Feelings of loneliness and isolation
Even if you leave your faith, religious trauma can make life disorienting or make you believe that you are sinful or condemned. Breaking away from harmful beliefs and conditions can be challenging, yet it is a crucial step on the road to healing.
How Counseling Can Help Heal Religious Abuse
Seeking out healing from religious abuse and/or trauma is a brave step towards reclaiming your peace and strength. Counseling provides a safe, supportive atmosphere that acknowledges the complexities of your experience and allows you to process what you’re feeling.
Bright Future Counseling addresses many facets of religious abuse. If you’ve experienced any of the below in a hurtful or abusive way, counseling can provide a safe space for healing and freedom.
This information is summarized from the infographics created by Your Favorite Heretics.
One-on-one counseling to address challenges in your life and work towards taking control of
your life.
Sexuality or gender-affirming counseling for LGBTQIA individuals.
