Why I’m Talking About Religious Trauma

Every time I say the words “religious trauma,” I feel the weight of it. I understand that the term can feel big, heavy, or unfamiliar to some. Maybe there are other ways to talk about it—terms like spiritual abuse, harm, or adverse religious experiences. What I’m really trying to address is the sometimes negative impact that involvement in a religious or spiritual group can leave behind. And that impact? It can be big and bold, or it can be small and chronic. But no matter its size, the impact is real.

In a previous blog post, I shared some of what that impact can look like—feelings of shame, insecurity, lack of trust in oneself, perfectionism, a harsh inner critic, extreme feelings of betrayal, loss, or emotional injury. These are just some of the ways religious trauma can show up.

But today, I want to talk about why I’m choosing to bring this up.

It’s simple: I’ve experienced it. And I know what it’s like to feel overwhelmed, hopeless, and unsure of how to navigate life after that kind of pain. I know how disorienting and scary it can be.

But I’ve also learned that sharing about my own religious trauma and its impact—whether with safe others, a trusted therapist, or within the healing container of a therapy group—has been transformative. In those spaces, I felt so much less alone. I felt safer with myself. And I felt hopeful again. Hopeful that the feelings of shame, fear, guilt, and hopelessness don’t have to last forever.

These experiences have changed me—changed how I carry my past and how I find peace with who I am in ways I didn’t know were possible. And because I’ve experienced the power of healing in these spaces, I believe in the importance of offering that same safety, presence, and curiosity to others who need it too.

That’s why I’m forming a therapy group for individuals recovering from religious trauma, spiritual harm, or the lasting effects of high-control or rigid religious environments.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the aftermath of religious trauma, I’d love to invite you to explore this journey of healing together. Reach out if you’re interested in learning more about the group or if you have any questions.

Because I believe that community and connection can shift fear into curiosity and courage.