Brought to you by the New York Mental Health Counselors Association
Religion can be a source of meaning, identity, and community—but for some, it is also a place of harm. This presentation explores religious and spiritual trauma within high-control Orthodox communities, centering the lived experiences of those who have disaffiliated.Drawing on emerging research, we examine patterns of shame, fear, perfectionism, and restricted autonomy, as well as the complex process of cognitive and emotional separation from faith. Particular attention is given to experiences within the Orthodox community shaped by generational trauma and antisemitism, offering a nuanced understanding of this population.Beyond highlighting harm, this session focuses on resilience and identity reconstruction. Participants will gain insight into the ways individuals reclaim agency, rebuild meaning, and navigate life after disaffiliation.Attendees will leave with concrete, trauma-informed, and ethically grounded strategies to support formerly Orthodox clients, strengthening cultural humility and clinical responsiveness in practice.