Resources

Recovery from religious trauma is possible. Research shows that roughly one-third of U.S. adults have experienced religious trauma in some form. Here are trauma-informed, evidence-based resources to support your healing journey.

📚 Educational Resources

Recommended Books

From Our Community

"Under Authority" by Kimalee Finelli

A powerful Reverend with a hidden agenda. A blind and fearful congregation. In this unusual account of Kate Elliot's experience as a victim of a manipulative church leader, Kate arrives home in Twin River's Junction after a long absence. As phantoms from long ago emerge, she must return to the place where it all began. Will Kate be able to face her tormented past and find the answers she's looking for along with the courage to forgive?

About the author: Residing in sunny South Carolina, Kimalee Finelli has studied with the Long Ridge Writers Group, has written articles, short stories, and Under Authority is her first novel. Based on true events and written as fiction, the book is about a young woman's quest to face her past and find healing from her traumatic religious experience. While away from her computer, Kimalee is a devoted wife, mother, and preschool assistant. She also enjoys hiking near waterfalls, pets, coffee, books, movies, and quaint towns.

Podcasts & Media

🌐 Online Communities

Reddit Communities

  • r/ReligiousTrauma - Support and discussion for religious trauma recovery
  • r/Exvangelical - Community for those leaving evangelical Christianity
  • r/ExChristian - Large forum for former Christians of all backgrounds
  • r/CPTSD - Support for Complex PTSD from any cause

Note: Always use caution when joining online communities. Look for moderated groups with clear guidelines and supportive environments.

🏠 Local Upstate South Carolina Resources

Mental Health Services

Trauma & Abuse Support

Community Support

  • Unitarian Universalist congregations often host inclusive support groups
  • Upstate Atheists & Humanists of the Carolinas - Secular community fellowship
  • Public library workshops on mindfulness and wellness
  • Join our interest list for local religious trauma support group updates

🧘 Self-Care & Wellness

Mindfulness & Meditation Apps

  • Headspace - User-friendly guided meditations for anxiety & stress
  • Calm - Sleep stories and breathing programs
  • Insight Timer - Free meditation library with trauma-specific content

Evidence-Based Grounding Techniques

  • 5-4-3-2-1 Method: Name 5 things you see, 4 you feel, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, 1 you taste
  • Box Breathing: Inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4 (repeat)
  • Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Tense and release muscle groups
  • Grounding Objects: Carry a comforting tactile item for anchoring

Trauma-Informed Physical Wellness

  • Trauma-sensitive yoga - Choice-based, gentle movement
  • Regular gentle exercise - Walking, swimming, or dancing
  • Sleep hygiene - Consistent bedtime routine, limit screens
  • Nutrition support - Stable blood sugar, adequate hydration

🚨 Crisis Resources

⚠️ If you're in immediate danger or crisis

Please contact emergency services or a crisis hotline immediately. These resources provide 24/7 professional support.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Call or text: 988

24/7 free and confidential support for people in distress and their loved ones

Crisis Text Line

Text HOME to 741741

24/7 crisis support via text message with trained counselors

Emergency Services

Call 911

For immediate danger, medical emergencies, or when someone's safety is at risk

National Domestic Violence Hotline

1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

24/7 confidential support for domestic abuse situations

The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth)

1-866-488-7386

24/7 crisis counseling for LGBTQ+ youth. Text START to 678678

Need More Help?

If you can't find what you're looking for or need personalized guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to our team.

Join Our CommunityRead FAQ

Disclaimer: The resources listed here are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional medical or psychological advice. Always consult with qualified professionals for personalized guidance. If you're experiencing a mental health emergency, please contact 988 or 911 immediately.