Many people who leave high-demand religions or cults are ashamed of their upbringing and past. This pathology can be reinforced by well-meaning “helpers” who contend that the refugee’s former life was bad, but that if they disown it, they can now be good. This can cause disastrous consequences, both psychologically and emotionally, for the refugee. This session examines the harm of disowning and dismembering the self, with suggestions for practices to “re-member” ourselves for healing and growth.

Shirlee Draper, Steve Florman