About
Why this exists
To build a confidential, peer-led community where survivors of religious harm across Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, and surrounding areas in Upstate South Carolina can share, heal, and reclaim agency, free of judgment or proselytizing.
What we mean by “religious trauma”
People describe their experiences in different ways: religious trauma, church hurt, church abuse, spiritual abuse, or harm linked to purity culture. Whatever words you use, you’ll be met with respect and support. We’re peer-led (not therapy), judgment-free, and confidential.
Who we support
Adults (18+) across Upstate SC who are processing experiences like shaming, control, exclusion, assault, or rigid purity teachings. That includes people still in church, people deconstructing, and people no longer religious.
Our Values
💝 Empathy
We meet each story with respect, not debate.
🌱 Autonomy
Each member sets their own pace and makes their own choices.
🔒 Confidentiality
First-name basis, no recordings, data-secure.
🌈 Inclusivity
Affirming of all genders, orientations, and faith positions.
📚 Evidence-informed
Guided by trauma research and best peer-support practices.
What to Expect
This is a growing community, still taking shape. Here's what you can expect:
Monthly newsletters
Healing resources and community updates delivered to your inbox
Online support groups
Virtual community events and peer-led support sessions
Resource library access
Curated trauma-informed materials and healing resources
Judgment-free space
Go at your own pace. Listening counts as participating.
Hi, I'm Andrew
Survivor, father, and data & AI leader.
Cat dad, LEGO fan, distance runner.
My Story
A heads up before you read: my story names physical and sexual abuse. If that's not where you are today, skip to the next section. The rest of the page works fine without it.
I grew up in a 24/7 evangelical, purity culture bubble: homeschooled, in church three times a week, vacation Bible school every summer. I was taught to fear a god who saw me as never enough, through a religious institution that prioritized control through fear. Physical and sexual abuse hid behind that theology, leaving me with silent panic and the sense that something was deeply wrong with me.
In my twenties I began questioning that bubble, yet the weight of unexamined pain finally crushed me in my early 30s. A therapist named it: C-PTSD, with ADHD in the mix. Naming it didn't fix everything, but it opened a path.
I'm still on that path, and I can finally see hope. I want to share that hope with others who grew up inside similar faith cultures. This group is for anyone who wonders if life beyond religious harm is possible. I don't have all the answers, but I believe shared stories create real change.
If you want company in this, add your voice. We'll grow stronger together.
And if you're in crisis right now: call or text 988, or text HOME to 741741.
Your Safety & Privacy
🛡️ Confidentiality First
- • First names only in group settings
- • No recordings of any kind
- • Secure data handling practices
- • What's shared in group stays in group, unless someone is in danger
🤝 Trauma-Informed Approach
- • Peer-led, not therapy or treatment
- • Choice and control for every participant
- • No pressure to share or participate
- • Respect for all faith journeys
You're not alone, and you're not broken.
You adapted to what was around you. If and when you want company, we're here. No pressure, and no timeline.
Have questions about our approach, group format, or what to expect?
Check out our FAQ