Psychologist for Spiritual Abuse
Have you experienced hurt, confusion, or control in a faith setting that has left you questioning your beliefs, your worth, or your place in community?
Support is available. Spiritual abuse can leave deep emotional and psychological wounds—often accompanied by shame, isolation, or a sense of spiritual betrayal. Therapy offers a safe and respectful space to process these experiences, make sense of what has happened, and begin to rebuild trust—both in yourself and, if desired, in your faith or community. Healing is possible.
"Healing from spiritual abuse is about reclaiming your faith and your voice."
Information about Spiritual Abuse
What is Spiritual Abuse?
Spiritual abuse is the misuse of religious beliefs, practices, or spiritual authority to manipulate, control, or harm individuals. It may involve using the Bible, God, or spiritual concepts to impose shame, guilt, or fear, resulting in a breakdown of relationships with God, self, and others. Spiritual abuse can manifest as the perversion of religious doctrine, preaching, or practices to exert power over others, often undermining their spiritual well-being and sense of identity.
This form of abuse may involve unjust control, coercion, or judgment by individuals in leadership or authority, but can also emerge from broader systems, church boards, or rigid belief structures that suppress individual freedom. Spiritual abuse often mirrors patterns seen in other forms of abuse, such as manipulation, gaslighting, and isolation, and may occur alongside verbal, emotional, physical, sexual, or financial abuse.
At its core, spiritual abuse distorts the intended purpose of spiritual guidance, exploiting trust and corrupting the sense of safety that faith communities should provide. It has far-reaching effects, including deep emotional and psychological harm, spiritual confusion, and disconnection from one's faith and community.
What are the core aspects of spiritual abuse?
Spiritual abuse often involves:
Coercion and Control: Leaders exploit spiritual authority to dominate, using intimidation, shame, or fear to manipulate behaviour.
Manipulation of Beliefs: Theological ideas are twisted to justify harmful actions or maintain power.
Denial of Spiritual Autonomy: Individuals are discouraged from trusting their own spiritual experiences.
Spiritual Gaslighting: Victims are led to question their own beliefs, perceptions, or connection with God, leaving them confused and disoriented.
Performance-Based Spirituality: Acceptance is tied to rigid spiritual standards, with emotional, psychological, and practical needs overlooked.
Exploitation for Personal Gain: Spiritual authority is misused to promote personal agendas or secure influence.
Isolation: Victims may be cut off from supportive relationships, increasing dependence on the abuser.
These behaviors exploit faith, creating confusion, shame, and disconnection from one's beliefs and sense of self.
What are the consequences of Spiritual Abuse
The consequences of spiritual abuse can be profound and far-reaching. Victims often experience unwarranted guilt and shame, imposed by those in spiritual authority, leading to a loss of identity as a faithful believer. This misplaced sense of responsibility can undermine their self-worth and spiritual confidence. Perhaps most significantly, spiritual abuse can result in alienation from one's faith, leaving individuals feeling disconnected from their spiritual community, beliefs, and even their relationship with God.
Spiritual abuse can have profound and far-reaching effects on mental health, including:
Emotional Impact: Victims may experience deep shame, guilt, anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression. Feelings of inferiority, resentment, and even suicidal thoughts are common.
Cognitive and Psychological Impact: Victims may struggle to trust their own perceptions, reality, or spiritual experiences, leaving them confused and disoriented.
Physical Impact: Stress-related symptoms such as high blood pressure, chest pain, fatigue, and physical deterioration can emerge.
Social Impact: Trust in authority figures may be severely damaged, often resulting in social withdrawal, loss of friendships, and isolation.
Spiritual Impact: Victims may become disillusioned with their faith, struggle to connect with God, and question their spiritual identity or sense of purpose.
These consequences can deeply undermine an individual’s identity, relationships, and overall well-being.
Seeking Support for Spiritual Abuse
Spiritual abuse can leave lasting wounds—particularly when it occurs in the very places meant to offer safety, guidance, and belonging. Kylie is a registered psychologist committed to supporting individuals from religious communities and those emerging from high-control or spiritually harmful environments.
She offers a safe, non-judgmental space to explore and process experiences of spiritual abuse, religious trauma, and adult clergy sexual abuse. Kylie also supports individuals navigating the complex aftermath of abusive Christian marriages, helping them reclaim their voice and rebuild their sense of identity in a way that honours both their personal growth and spiritual journey.
Many who have experienced spiritual abuse struggle with trust, anxiety, depression, or feel lost in their faith. Kylie’s approach is compassionate, client-centred, and sensitive to the intersection of faith, trauma, and recovery—ensuring your healing is aligned with your beliefs and values.