Religion has the power to bring people together, provide comfort in times of need, and offer a sense of purpose and meaning. However, for some individuals, religious beliefs and practices can also be a source of trauma and distress. Religious trauma is a term that is increasingly being recognized in the mental health field, referring to the emotional and psychological harm that can result from harmful religious teachings and practices. Natasha Helfer, a renowned therapist, provides valuable insights into understanding and healing from religious trauma.
The Roots and Effects of Religious Trauma
Individuals who have experienced religious trauma may have encountered beliefs or practices within their religious community that were oppressive, shaming, or fear-inducing. These harmful experiences can have lasting effects on a person’s mental health and well-being, often leading to feelings of guilt, shame, anxiety, and confusion.
One common aspect of religious trauma is the internalization of negative beliefs and messages, such as feeling unworthy or sinful, or believing that one is doomed to eternal damnation. These beliefs can create a deep sense of shame and self-blame, leading to low self-esteem and self-worth.
Additionally, individuals who have experienced religious trauma may struggle with feelings of betrayal and disillusionment, as they come to realize that the beliefs and teachings they once held dear have caused them harm. This can lead to a loss of trust in religious institutions and authority figures, as well as a sense of isolation and disconnection from one’s faith community.
Navigating the Aftermath
Navigating the aftermath of religious trauma can be a complex and challenging process. It often involves unpacking and processing the harmful beliefs and experiences that have contributed to one’s emotional distress, and finding ways to rebuild a sense of self-worth and resilience.
Individual, marriage, and group therapy can be valuable resources for individuals who have experienced religious trauma, providing a safe and supportive space to explore their feelings, beliefs, and experiences, and to develop coping strategies for managing the emotional impact of their trauma.
The Role of Supportive Communities
In addition to therapy, individuals may benefit from seeking out supportive communities and resources that validate their experiences and offer a sense of belonging and understanding. This may include support groups, online forums, or organizations that specialize in religious trauma recovery.
It is important for individuals who have experienced religious trauma to prioritize their mental health and well-being, and to seek out the support and resources they need to heal and move forward. By acknowledging and addressing the impact of harmful religious beliefs and practices, individuals can begin to reclaim their sense of self and find healing and wholeness.
Natasha Helfer’s Clinical Mission
For all of these reasons, including her own personal experience coming from a religious community that did harm, Natasha Helfer has made it part of her clinical mission to offer supportive, effective, and evidence-based services at her group practice, Symmetry Counseling. From specialized groups and membership platforms for those going through faith transitions to training all of her providers on how to work with religious trauma, Natasha Helfer and her team are curating a space where clients can get their clinical, relational, and spiritual needs met
