Have you ever had this experience?
You’re sitting across from a friend trying to explain your upbringing. You mention a book, a television show, or a rule about what you were allowed to watch or believe—and you’re met with blank stares.
You try to explain the teachings, expectations, or messages you received growing up, but the conversation only leaves you feeling more misunderstood and alone.
You want to feel connected and understood, but talking about your religious background often leaves you feeling isolated instead.
Maybe you…
Experienced harmful or confusing religious messages that left you feeling guilty, anxious, or unworthy.
Struggle to reconcile past beliefs with your current values or identity.
Notice your relationship with food or your body has been shaped by strict ideas about discipline, purity, or appearance.
Feel disconnected from your body, or even completely numb.
You want to talk about these experiences without having to give your therapist a crash course in the language, beliefs, and culture of your religious upbringing.
I understand because I’ve been there too.
How I can help
Even if your religious community did not appear outwardly conservative, it’s still possible that certain teachings or experiences caused harm.
In therapy, we create space to explore your story with compassion and curiosity.
Healing from religious trauma involves honoring your unique journey while also understanding the broader context of how religious systems can shape beliefs about identity, body image, morality, and worth.
While each person’s healing process is different, many people find comfort in realizing they are not alone in these experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
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There is a strong connection between trauma and eating disorders because trauma leads to disconnection. However, I have found in my practice that many who experience religious trauma have unique beliefs about food that stem from their religious upbringing. While this looks different based on individual experiences, some of my clients express fear of being “gluttonous” in their recovery. Some people assigned female at birth received messages about what their bodies should look like and felt pressure to be small to appear more feminine. In addition to restoring their connection to themselves, therapy involves examining, unpacking, and challenging these beliefs.
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I was raised in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America and later spent time in Roman Catholic communities.
Before becoming a therapist, I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theology and Religious Studies and spent years exploring my own relationship with faith.
Like many people raised in Christianity, the journey in and out of different communities was not linear. I now identify as “spiritually private.” When working with clients, I share my own experiences only when it serves to strengthen the therapeutic relationship and create a sense of shared understanding.
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While denominations vary, many clients report being exposed to similar teachings about authority, morality, gender roles, or discipline.
What matters most in therapy is listening closely to each client’s story and helping them make meaning of their own experiences.
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I have experienced religious trauma but am not Christian. Can you still help me?
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No.
Healing from religious trauma does not require abandoning your faith.
Many people choose to redefine their relationship with religion rather than leave it entirely. In therapy, we focus on helping you set boundaries, examine beliefs critically, and reconnect with your internal wisdom while honoring the values that matter most to you.
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I provide virtual therapy across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, and New Hampshire. You can schedule a free 15-minute consultation to ensure we are a good fit for your needs.