Description

This presentation examines how doctrines rooted in fear—such as eternal damnation, divine surveillance, perfectionism, and premature forgiveness—can function as forms of psychological assault. These teachings can lead to chronic shame, anxiety, scrupulosity, identity confusion, and complex trauma responses. Through the lens of clinical experience and research, we’ll unpack how these dynamics especially affect individuals from high-demand religious systems. Attendees will gain language, validation, and tools for recognizing religious trauma in themselves or their clients—and begin reclaiming autonomy, self-trust, and healing.

Speaker

• Natasha Helfer/Symmetry Counseling (she/her)