Therapy for Ex-Mormons
A Shared Background
As a former member of the LDS church I understand the unique nuances of mormon culture and the effect religion can have on our mental health. I personally understand how overwhelming and confusing leaving a faith can be, and how religious trauma can continue to affect you for years after. I provide therapy to those who are experiencing difficulty while, or after, leaving their faith.
The LDS church, and its associated culture, is very difficult for many unfamiliar therapists to understand. As such, you may have to spend unnecessary time explaining the intricacies of the religion rather than focusing on your actual therapy goals. My background helps me to more easily understand and provide effective therapy to ex-mormon, post-mormon, or questioning-mormons, as well as those with other religious backgrounds.
Micah Rees, PhD. Licensed Psychologist
Transition Difficulties & Religious Trauma
Many who go through a transition of faith experience an existential crisis. When we question or lose a long-held belief system, we lose the comfort those beliefs provided us from the existential concerns we all face in life. We suddenly are faced with difficult questions about the meaning of life, life after death, and any number of moral dilemmas. Such a crisis can bring about depression, anxiety, and complicated relationship difficulties. This time can also be one of identity confusion, especially for those whose life and relationships were centered around their church membership.
In addition to the difficulty of transitioning away from a church, for many people, the experience in religion itself was traumatic. Many struggle to correct unhelpful beliefs or heal from traumatic experiences that continue to cause pain even after disaffiliating.
Although deeply uncomfortable, these crises often set the stage for personal growth. If you are struggling with the transition away from your faith or need to work through related religious trauma, therapeutic support can be invaluable.
Ethical and Unbiased Professionalism
Too often I’ve heard from clients that previous therapists have attempted to push religious views on them in their therapy. This is not only unprofessional but against the ethics that govern the practice of psychology.
As an ethically-minded psychologist, I do not encourage clients to stay in or leave any religion. It is not my place, nor any therapist’s place, to do so. I help my clients develop better mental health, self-understanding, and to improve their ability to make empowered, autonomous choices.
While working with me, you can expect that your identities, values, and beliefs will be respected. I am a queer-allied, sex-positive therapist. I will create a safe space for you to do the difficult work of self-improvement.
Online Therapy
Currently Available in 39 States
