Search Results for: spiritual abuse – Page 11

Our Relationships with Mentors, Coaches, and Therapists

Our Relationships with Mentors, Coaches, and Therapists

What if the person you’re turning to for healing is actually keeping you stuck? (Cue dramatic music and flashbacks to church lady “counseling” that made you question your entire existence.)

Welcome to Season 2 of the Divorced Christian Woman Podcast! I’m kicking things off with my friend and fellow coach, Diana Swillinger. We’re diving headfirst into the sometimes-healing, sometimes-horrifying world of mentors, coaches, and therapists.

Not all helpers are created equal, my friend. And no, your cousin’s youth group leader who “feels called” to counsel probably isn’t qualified to help you unravel years of spiritual abuse.

This episode is your guide to sorting through the noise, finding the right kind of help for the season you’re in, and learning how to trust your own gut again, especially after years of being told it was “deceitfully wicked.” (eye-roll)

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Out of the Poisoned Pond: Jennie’s Story

Out of the Poisoned Pond: Jennie’s Story [Episode 343]

What happens when you grow up in hyper-conservative church culture, marry your Bible camp sweetheart at 20, and then spend decades swimming in a poisoned pond of patriarchy, affairs, gaslighting, and spiritual abuse? Jennie’s story is a real look at what it takes to finally climb out of the muck and into fresh water.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is it me? Or is this whole thing just completely bonkers?” then pull up a chair. Jennie’s journey from silent suffering to empowered freedom will resonate with every woman who’s ever been told to “submit more, pray harder, and wear longer skirts” while her husband runs wild and gets a pat on the back from church elders.

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Escaping the Man Everyone Admired: Lisa's Story

Escaping the Man Everyone Admired: Lisa’s Story [Episode 331]

What happens when the man everyone admires is the one silently destroying your soul behind closed doors?
In this gripping episode, I sit down with Lisa: a strong, truth-telling woman who walked through 40 years of emotional and spiritual abuse in her marriage. From the trauma of date rape on her first date, to the covert spiritual manipulation in a seemingly “perfect” Christian home, Lisa vulnerably shares how she survived, how she healed, and how she’s now helping other women rise.
This episode is not just a story. It’s a reclamation.

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The Best Worst Decision: Erin’s Story

The Best Worst Decision: Erin’s Story [Episode 327]

Ever feel like you’re losing your mind but everyone around you says you’re just too sensitive? Welcome to the club you never asked to join. In this episode, I sit down with Erin, a long-time member of the Flying Free Kaleidoscope community, who opens up about her raw and redemptive journey out of emotional and spiritual abuse.
From marrying a man who knew his way around a Bible and a manipulation tactic (convenient, right?) to raising six kids in eight years while being told she was a “terrible housekeeper,” Erin did what so many Christian women are taught to do—sacrifice, submit, and smile. But eventually, she realized something crucial. God wasn’t calling her to be a martyr in her own marriage.

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How to Heal Fear and Reclaim Power After Trauma

How to Heal Fear and Reclaim Power After Trauma

Fear isn’t always the villain—it’s often a protective voice that’s just a little too loud after years of emotional and spiritual abuse. The key is learning when to listen and when to lovingly take your power back. In this post, we’ll explore how to tell the difference between helpful fear and harmful fear—and how faith and love can lead you back to peace.

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Broken Trust: When Church Hurts You

Broken Trust: When Church Hurts You [Episode 315]

In this eye-opening episode, Natalie shares her personal story of spiritual abuse and excommunication, offering a powerful backdrop for her conversation with author and spiritual consultant, Remy Diedrich. Together, they delve into the dynamics of toxic faith, spiritual abuse, and how unhealthy church cultures can harm individuals and families.
Remy, the author of Broken Trust, shares insights from his decades of ministry experience and his passion for helping people heal from spiritual abuse. Whether you’re grappling with toxic religious environments or recovering from years of harmful teachings, this episode offers hope, practical advice, and a fresh perspective.

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