Do you wonder why your’e having such a hard time if
you’ve left your religion? Do you think it’s silly to struggle when
all you’ve experienced is a “shift of beliefs”? Turns out this
isn’t so silly after all!
You may fit the criteria for a cPTSD diagnosis! I
was so excited to have interviewed the person who developed the
term "Religious Trauma Syndrome". I remember being skeptical
decades ago when I heard the language. And now, after working with
people from conservative and high demand religions for over two
decades, I understand the significance of Marlene Winell’s
work.
Dr. Marlene Winell is a licensed psychologist,
educator, and writer in western Massachusetts. Her background
includes 30 years of experience in human services, in both
community and academic settings. She holds a doctorate in Human
Development and Family Studies from Pennsylvania State University
and is the author of, "Leaving the Fold: A Guide for Former
Fundamentalists and Others Leaving their Religion." Dr. Winell
directs the organization, Journey Free, with services for recovery
from harmful religion. In 2011, she named "Religious Trauma
Syndrome." Marlene is also a filmmaker, photographer, mother, and
grandmother.
Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek