reclaim your spirituality

Therapy for Religious Trauma in Charleston & Across South Carolina

So what is an adverse religious experience?

It is estimated that in the united states, approximately 1/3 of adults have been affected by religious trauma

The Institute for Religious Trauma defines adverse religious experiences as,” Any experience of a religious belief, practice, or structure that undermines an individual's sense of safety or autonomy and/or negatively impacts their physical, social, emotional, relational, or psychological well-being.” These experiences typically occur within a structure of power and control, where the believer is manipulated to adhere to beliefs by the use of fear and shame. The follower is not allowed to question practices, values or authority. They may be separated from their family and community told they will be punished or to practice more prayer or rituals to make themselves worthy.

Healthy spirituality and religion fosters growth, peace and compassion. It provides a strong foundation for coping with life's challenges, offering a sense of hope, purpose, and perspective during difficult times. It encourages ethical behavior and integrity, promoting honesty, kindness, and a sense of justice. Overall, spirituality promotes emotional well-being and resilience. Creating a meaningful life by nurturing both the inner self, connections with the outer world and the divine.

You may have experienced religious trauma if…..

You grapple with what you’ve been taught but are fearful of asking questions where you’ll be “led astray” or be betrayed by trusted leaders.

You’re feelings are dismissed and invalidated when you’re told you aren’t praying enough, trusting or following religious practices.

You’re living in guilt and shame, criticizing yourself and fearful of upsetting your clergyman or God.

You consider yourself a “people pleaser” and find it difficult to say “no”.

You struggle to trust and accept your own feelings, values and intuition because you’ve been taught they are “wrong or bad.”

What we’ll create together

Imagine a life where…

  • You don’t live in fear of always being wrong or punished

  • Your beliefs, values and self are affirmed in your thoughts and actions

  • You’re connected to yourself and others in a healthy way

  • You feel “in-sync” with your inner self, the world around you and the spiritualty or religious practices of your choosing

  • You trust your inner wisdom; reclaiming your meaning and purpose

  • You enjoy the journey of discovering your values and autonomy

AT THE END OF THE DAY, I WANT YOU TO KNOW…

“Knowing that we can be loved exactly as we are gives us all the best opportunity for growing into the healthiest of people.” — Fred Rogers