Faith-based communities can have a tremendously positive benefit for many people, helping with physical, spiritual, and even emotional needs. Sadly, not all faith-based experiences are positive. Some can be “high demand and high control” and can have lasting negative effects on how we view the world around us, leading us into deep existential pain that is difficult to recover from on our own. Navigating those experiences takes support, compassion, and gentless that is not always understood within those faith communities.
It is challenging when you may not feel understood by those you care for. It is in those times that unpacking the fears, pain, and confusion with a trained professional can help make sense of all that has taken place. A therapist can bring non judgemental insight, experience, and training, to help you work through something so foundational to your life. They will not tell you what to believe, but will help you unpack and process the differences in faith and spirituality, any trauma that has occurred, and how to heal as you rediscover and see life with the joy that you deserve.
What are some of the signs of religious trauma?
As a Canadian Certified Counsellor, Terry Stroud has religious experience from being a former pastor. He uses Existential-Humanistic Psychotherapy and Somatic work to assist individuals through religious trauma, deconstruction, and navigating similar issues.
What therapy methods are used?
Who can benefit?
If you are feeling lost, confused, or struggling with how you have been negatively impacted by a religious experience as an adult or as a child, then it may be worth exploring with a therapist. With support, compassion, and intentional processing, those who are hurt can find a new sense of healing and growth as they make sense of the religious trauma that has taken place.
