Key Takeaways

 • Spiritual abuse distorts identity and faith, requiring self-discovery and healing.

 • Challenging harmful beliefs is essential for reclaiming autonomy.

 • Authentic relationships with God and others thrive without dogmatic control.

The Hidden Impact of Spiritual Abuse

Spiritual abuse operates under the guise of guidance but thrives on control, often within rigid religious and familial structures. In a recent Pretty Psych podcast episode, Megan Owen and guest Bonnie explore its deep impact and the difficult yet liberating process of healing.

The Double Bind of Spiritual Abuse

Bonnie describes the impossible contradictions she faced: “I was taught never to speak ill of my husband or my marriage and to be joyful all the time in all circumstances.” These unrealistic expectations left her trapped, fearing both divine and communal disapproval. “My experience was just as much spiritual abuse from my own family as it was in the church,” she reveals.

This conditioning erodes personal agency, making decisions feel impossible. Megan highlights the importance of reclaiming autonomy: “It’s still our decision to make.” Breaking free begins with recognizing the right to choose one’s own path.

Rebuilding Connection with Self and God

Bonnie’s journey shows the power of questioning harmful beliefs and redefining faith. No longer bound by rigid doctrine, she now sees herself through a lens of love rather than fear. “He created me in his image because he specifically wanted there to be a Bonnie in the world,” she reflects, embracing a faith that values individuality.

Her story underscores that true spirituality uplifts rather than diminishes. Healing involves rediscovering self-worth and understanding that faith should empower, not control.

Embracing Authentic Relationships

Bonnie’s transformation extends beyond faith into relationships. She recalls being taught, “Marriage isn’t to make you happy. It’s to make you holy,” reflecting a past where obedience was prioritized over mutual respect.

 Now, she experiences a supportive partnership. “You were treated like an enemy or a servant, and now you have this beautiful relationship,” Megan observes. This shift proves that love flourishes when rooted in respect, not control.

Healing is Possible

 Bonnie’s journey offers hope: breaking free from spiritual abuse is challenging but deeply freeing. “Even in the darkest times, I still reached for God because without Him, I would have had no tether at all,” she shares.

Her resilience proves that faith and self-worth can be reclaimed. By challenging harmful beliefs, redefining relationships, and embracing authenticity, healing becomes not just possible—but inevitable.