The effects of authoritarian religious training can last a long time and run deep, seriously impacting your ability to enjoy life. Often people have intense feelings and are not sure about how to move forward with a new framework for living. A person knowledgeable in human development can guide you through steps to rebuild your life and strengthen areas of personal development.
As a "recovering fundamentalist" myself, and with years of experience working with people coming out of many dogmatic religious traditions, I have written a self-help book called Leaving the Fold: A Guide for Former Fundamentalists and Others Leaving Their Religion. For some time now, I have consulted with people of many backgrounds – evangelical and Pentecostal Christian, Mormon, Jehovah Witness, Seventh-Day Adventist, Scientology, Eastern groups, and any organizations of a cultish nature.
I have also put together a companion website that focuses on recovery from harmful religion: www.journeyfree.org
Here is a clip of an interview I gave with Dr. Valerie Tarico, in which I outline what I see to be the abusive effects of indoctrination by authoritarian religion.
Talk delivered at the Texas Free Thought Convention: "It’s Time to Recognize RTS (Religious Trauma Syndrome) — Causes, Symptoms, and Steps in Recovery."
Recommendations from Linkedin
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Richard Rossi (client)
“Dr Winell is the foremost expert at assisting those who have been damaged by toxic religious groups and cults to recover from spiritual abuse and rigid religious indoctrination. Her book and retreats are the best in the field.” October 13, 2011
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Valerie Tarico, Ph.D., Psychologist, Writer and Speaker (colleague)
“Marlene Winell's depth of experience with religious trauma and recovery is unparalleled. She has worked remotely and in person with hundreds of clients, each struggling to cleanse his or her mind and emotions of toxic residue from authoritarian religion. Her book, written materials, and insightful questions have helped many to move forward in the process of healing.” October 24, 2011
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Rebecca Rosen Lum, Regional reporter, Bay Area News Group-East Bay (colleague)
“Marlene Winell is an intelligent person with a quiet strength and clarity of purpose -- a natural leader. She is both an analyst and a visionary; on one hand, deeply compassionate, on the other, a consummate and methodical organizer. I've seen her plan and conduct complex events, in the process meeting the needs of multiple clients, dealing deftly with surprises, and keeping the ball rolling toward its planned outcome. She is a lively thinker and a clear communicator.” October 13, 2011
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Heina Dadabhoy (client)
“Marlene is an expert in helping people to recover from the harmful effects of fundamentalist religion. In addition, she provides excellent advice and guidance in handling family relationships.” October 13, 2011
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Richard Irwin (client)
“I read Marlene's book "Leaving the Fold" because of recommendations I found online and because we share similar backgrounds, and I profited greatly from it. She had deep insight into my issues as an ex-fundamentalist, helped me through a difficult time, and provided me effective tools/techniques that I've continued to use regularly .” October 13, 2011
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MaryKris Mcilwaine, Ph.D. (client)
“Marlene has in-depth expertise in the specialized (but crucial) area of recovery from harmful religious indoctrination. She is generous, creative and good-humored in deploying her knowledge to help clients re-gain their equilibrium and begin to step out of toxic imprinting.” October 16, 2011
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Rob Steiner, Co-Founder, Recovering Fundamentalists (colleague)
“Many people who are suffering from the affects of oppressive religious abuse seek help through our organization. Many times, the impact far exceed our capacity and requires professional attention. I am very grateful to have someone like Marlene. I can trust Marlene to sympathize with our community while also providing consultation. She's the best in the world at what she does. I have no doubt about that. Thank you, Marlene!” February 23, 2012
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Janet Heimlich, Student, Stanford University, Author (colleague)
“Dr. Winell has done a great deal to reach out to those who are emotionally struggling after having emerged from oppressive faith environments. I believe her book and website would be helpful to anyone in this situation, whether they grew up in an abusive religious culture or joined as an adult. As I was impressed with her work, I recommended her book on my website.” October 28, 2011
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Jim Moyers, Psychotherapy Private Practice, Jim Moyers, MF (colleague)
“I have known Marlene for a number of years primarily through her work with recovering fundamentalists, including her book, "Leaving the Fold." I have been impressed with Marlene's openess, her genuine warmth, and compassion as well as her knowledge of the complicated issues involved with outgrowing a belief system.” October 13, 2011
Bob Cowart, Marriage and Family Therapist Intern, Clear Visions Counseling (colleague)
“Marlene is the only person I know who is working in the area of RTS (Religious Trauma Syndrome). Based on her book "Leaving the Fold" and knowing Marlene for a few years, as well as attending one of her weekend RTS retreats and speaking with some of her clients/attendees, I highly recommend Marlene, especially if you suspect you may have RTS. She's very down to earth and keeps it 'real.' She will have a real conversation with you, as well as listening attentively. ” October 13, 2011
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Consultation is available in person or by telephone.
For more information about all the types of help available, please go to my companion website, Journeyfree.org
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