Adverse religious experiences can leave deep emotional, psychological, and relational wounds. Many people come to therapy feeling anxious, ashamed, disconnected from themselves, or unsure what they believe anymore. These experiences often come from environments that used fear, control, or rigid belief systems to shape identity and behavior. Over time, this can lead to anxiety, depression, scrupulosity, identity confusion, and difficulty trusting yourself or others.

I work with individuals who are processing the impact of Christian nationalism, patriarchy, and spiritual abuse in western evangelicalism. These systems can create pressure to conform, suppress autonomy, and disconnect from your own values and internal sense of truth. You may have been taught that questioning is dangerous, that your worth is conditional, or that your identity must fit within narrow expectations. Therapy can help you unpack these messages in a way that is compassionate, grounded, and empowering.

Adverse religious experiences do not always look dramatic or extreme. Sometimes they show up as chronic guilt, fear of making the wrong choice, difficulty setting boundaries, or a persistent sense that something feels off but you cannot fully explain why. Many people struggle with internalized shame, black and white thinking, or a fear of punishment that lingers long after leaving a religious environment. These patterns make sense given what you have been through, and they are not a personal failure.

In our work together, I use evidence-based approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help you reconnect with your values, build psychological flexibility, and develop a more grounded relationship with your thoughts and emotions. We will move at your pace as you explore what you want to keep, what you want to release, and how you want to move forward. You do not have to rush into answers or force clarity before you are ready (or… at all, quite frankly!).

Therapy for adverse religious experiences is not about telling you what to believe. It is about helping you think freely, feel safely, and live more authentically. Whether you are in the middle of deconstruction, questioning long-held beliefs, or trying to rebuild after spiritual harm, this space is for you.

If you are ready to begin working through adverse religious experiences, I offer therapy in Olathe, Kansas near Overland Park in the heart of Johnson County, as well as online sessions throughout Kansas.