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Virtual Therapy What is online therapy? Virtual Therapy Online therapy, also known as remote therapy, virtual therapy, or teletherapy, is therapy conducted when the patient is in a different place than the clinician. This method has become increasingly popular and all Stanley Psychology clinicians are able to offer online therapy services. Why choose online therapy? M any people choose remote services for convenience, time, and comfort. By offering online therapy, any people are able to access therapy when barriers are present otherwise, such as time constraints in the workday, family obligations, or location. At Stanley Psychology, we offer in-person appointments in Mansfield, Texas, virtual appointments, or a hybrid approach in which patients can choose to attend virtually or in person at any point in time. ​ Does online therapy work as well as in-person? Research demonstrates that online therapy can be as effective as in-person for many concerns! If your clinician believes you may benefit more from in-person services, that recommendation will be discussed during your course of treatment. How does online therapy work? Remote services offered through Stanley Psychology have similarities amongst clinicians, including privacy, HIPAA compliance, and video or phone offerings. You will be provided a link to access your session prior to your appointment time. Do I have to do online or can I attend in person? You can absolutely attend in-person. In fact, we would love to have you in the office! However, because of the popularity of remote services, some clinicians have remote days of work where they are not physically present in-office. Your clinician will discuss availability during your initial session. What states can you practice virtual therapy in? Dr. Stanley is fully licensed in Texas and Kansas, which means all clinicians supervised by Dr. Stanley can offer services there. In addition, we are part of the PSYPACT program, which allows for interstate practice in 39 states and counting! Thus, there are more states that we CAN see patients in versus not! The PSYPACT map is regularly added to, therefore it is best to reference this information to determine state-specific questions. MORE QUESTIONS? CONTACT US

Our Team Stanley Psychology is a group of experienced, unique, and passionate employees who work together to create a welcoming and supportive therapeutic environment for you. Each staff member is committed to evidence-based practice and ongoing professional development. Please see below to learn more about the team! Dr. Amanda Stanley Supervisory Psychologist & Owner of Stanley Psychology Qualifications: Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, Sam Houston State University M.A. in Clinical Psychology, Sam Houston State University B.S. in Psychology, Summa Cum Laude, University of Houston 13 years of practice, 6 years as the owner of a private practice Expertise: Trauma Recovery & PTSD Substance Abuse & Addiction Abuse & Violence Psycholegal issues Psychological Testing & Evaluation Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, & Adjustment Disorders dr.stanley@stanleypsychology.com ​Dr. Amanda Stanley is a graduate of Sam Houston State University’s renowned Clinical Psychology doctoral program. During her tenure at SHSU, she published several articles in peer-reviewed journals on areas including trauma and psycholegal issues under her maiden name of Amacker, and worked as an instructor and peer supervisor for less-senior students. Her clinical experience spans areas including inpatient treatment, neuropsychiatrics, forensic psychology, outpatient clinics, and the federal prison system, where she worked in mental health services for seven years. Although she treats a wide range of clinical issues in her practice, areas of specialty include trauma recovery, substance abuse, and women's issues. Due to her training and research, she is an expert on sexual assault and has a passion for providing talks to groups on rape laws, psychological sequalae post-assault, and post-traumatic growth. She also enjoys providing talks to groups on substance abuse diagnostics and recovery. In addition, Dr. Stanley has developed expertise in conducting psychological evaluations and considers this a primary part of her clinical practice. In her free time, Dr. Stanley enjoys time with her husband, Adam, and their dog-children Roxy (15), Roux (5), and their latest addition, Raider (3); Riddle, also pictured, gained his angel wings in 2022, five weeks shy of 15. As an avid sports fan, she spends much of her down time watching New Orleans Saints football and Houston Astros baseball- she was born in New Orleans and grew up in Houston, hence the team loyalties. She relocated to the Dallas/Fort Worth area with her husband in 2016 and is happy to call this area home. Whenever possible, she enjoys spending time with her father, siblings, and kiddos of the family who range in age from 6 to 24 years old. The memory of her beloved mother, who passed in 2018, keeps her motivated to be the best she can be every day, in both personal and professional endeavors. Adam Stanley Co-Owner of Stanley Psychology Adam is a co-owner of Stanley Psychology, and as you may have guessed (or read above), Adam is Amanda's husband. Adam has an MBA from Texas Tech University and is an experienced strategic sourcing professional who currently works as a director for a large healthcare system. Additionally, Adam is often behind the scenes at Stanley Psychology, handling most of the business issues and allowing Amanda more time to focus on patient care. As a result you may see him in-office from time to time doing various tasks, such as checking the A/C system, running payroll, meeting with other professionals, and networking. In his spare time, Adam focuses on family time with Amanda and their dog-children. He also has a love for all things Texas Tech, his alma mater. As a sports-lover like Amanda, Adam's favorite time of year is the college football season, although he also promised to be a Saints fan for his NFL team in his wedding vows. The Stanley Psychology Team Proficient. Open-Minded. Empathetic. Dedicated. Veronica Guerrero-Quan, M.S. Licensed Psychological Associate - Independent Practice Veronica is a Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA) with Independent Practice (License # 38808), which is the most advanced Psychological Associate license. Click here to learn more about LPAs. Veronica attended Southwestern Assemblies of God University, or SAGU, and earned her Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies, and Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Veronica's clinical experience includes diagnostic testing and evaluation, trauma-informed therapy, assessing and addressing acculturation challenges, crisis intervention, family therapy, and spiritual integration. Additionally, Veronica has completed post-masters training to become a Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional and integrates these skills into her treatment approach. veronica@stanleypsychology.com Veronica is very passionate about helping people heal from spiritual abuse and/or church hurt within Christian religious contexts. Veronica is currently a student at Dallas Theological Seminary (en Español). Her hope is to shed light on the psychological and social factors that lead to the tragedy of spiritual abuse, empowering clients to find their healing in the aftermath. Depression, panic attacks, anxiety, and spiritual confusion are not the end of the story. Veronica also loves helping people who find themselves struggling with eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression/suicidality, and stress management. In her personal life, Veronica is happily married and loves spending time with loved ones. Meet her niece in the picture! She places a high priority on faith and family, because life is too short not to! Her greatest joys also include learning, travelling, playing board games, hiking, and spending time outdoors. Veronica is first generation bilingual Mexican-American, meaning she is the first in her family of origin to be born in the United States. For this reason, Mexico holds a dear place in her heart and she easily relates to people of Latino origin. Morgan Flores, M.S. Licensed Psychological Associate Morgan is a Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA; License #40186). She earned her Master of Science in Clinical Psychology at Nelson University and has worked at Stanley Psychology in progressing positions since 2022. She has a desire to meet people where they are and help navigate life's challenges with effective tools for intentional healing and growth. While equipped to serve a variety of clients, she has a passion for conflict resolution in marital and family contexts, working with mothers of young children and foster & adoptive families, along with trauma therapy. mflores@stanleypsychology.com Morgan enjoys engaging with individual patients as well as facilitating group therapy with multiple family members or unrelated patients working to achieve a similar goal. She specializes in incorporating Biblical values into therapy, as requested, with an educational background in therapy from a Christian perspective. In her personal life, Morgan is married and mothers two children, a girl and a boy, both under three years of age. She comes from a family of one biological and three adopted siblings. She enjoys a good cup of coffee, traveling to new places, flipping things on Facebook Marketplace, playing strategic board games, taking long walks, and reading a variety of books whenever she has free time. In early adulthood, Morgan lived in Central America, specifically Nicaragua, for three years, and always welcomes a good conversation in Spanish and authentic Latino food. Morgan Brown, M.S. Therapist Morgan earned her Master of Science in Clinical Psychology at SAGU and has worked at Stanley Psychology in progressing positions since 2022. She has a heart for helping others since childhood and has a desire to make sure people feel heard and supported throughout life. With this passion, she sought education for this career path, having completed her Bachelor of Science in Human Services and Psychology before enrolling in and completing her graduate studies. She is also pursuing a licensure as a Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA). mbrown@stanleypsychology.com Morgan's therapeutic interests include anxiety disorders, self-esteem concerns, and Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder. She is well-versed in serving children/adolescents and socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. Although she is skilled with providing therapy to a variety of patients, Morgan specializes with children. She also offers group therapy services with specific therapeutic themes. In her personal life, Morgan loves spending time with her husband and her pug puppy, Frankie. Her hobbies include crocheting, painting, and jigsaw puzzles. Petrona Kautz, M.A., M.S. Therapist Petrona graduated with a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Nelson University and holds a second master’s degree in organizational leadership. She additionally has credentials as an Ordained Minister and Career Missionary. As a minister, missionary, life and leadership coach, and mental health therapist, she has always felt drawn towards being a champion of others, someone who people can turn to when they need someone to listen and share insight. As a therapist, she specializes in spiritual recovery, dynamics of leadership, family therapy, trauma, and transitions. She is particularly well-versed in treating young adults and the unique challenges they face. Her goal is to help patients discover their strengths, build resilience, and find the right therapies to be successful in everyday life. pkautz@stanleypsychology.com Petrona understands the challenges that can arise as one works to find balance both in spiritual and mental health. Her passion is to help others discover the skills they need to be successful in overcoming difficulties. She strives to help others find awareness of the potential and abilities that lie within them in order to experience personal success. She also understands the dynamics that leaders encounter, whether dealing with pressure one experiences when given great responsibility or the need to understand how to better interact with team members. As a missionary, Petrona understands the intricacies of emotions that are involved when one goes through transition, be it through changes in life stages or transitions from moving cross-culturally. She is bilingual in Spanish and English, with a Mexican heritage, and has lived in Central and South America. Petrona was drawn to mental health services when she and her husband founded a community center in Medellín, Colombia. She recognized that many needed someone who could walk alongside them through healing and finding their own voice in the midst of oppression. She has a long history of working with children, teens, and young adults. In her free time, Petrona enjoys spending time with her family. She is married, has two adult children, two granddogs and a grandcat. She enjoys a good game night, especially if Catan is being played. She also enjoys running. Jessica Simonetti, M.S. Masters Practicum Student Clinician Jessica is currently finishing her Master of Science in Clinical Psychology degree at SAGU. After graduation, she plans to pursue licensure as an LPA. She also received a Master of Science in Forensic Psychology from Nova Southeastern University. Jessica has previous neuropsychological assessment experience as well as experience working with individuals suffering from mental health crises. She has a passion for working with new moms, clients with depression and anxiety, clients with personality disorders, and children with behavioral problems, whether it be through therapy or psychological assessment. Her goal with all clients is that each one would feel respected, understood, and valued, as God created all people to feel. She hopes to eventually do more forensic assessment, as she has recognized the need for this in the state of Texas. Jessica has been married to her husband for 5 years, and they have 2 boys together—one is 2 years old and one was born in August 2023. They also have 3 dogs, so there is never a dull moment at home. She and her husband own a gym and Jessica has an event planning business she runs as well with her twin sister and best friend. Jessica loves to travel as often as she can, listen to true crime podcasts, go hiking with her family, and spend way too much time online shopping. jessica@stanleypsychology.com Natalie Arduini Patient Care Coordinator Natalie Arduini, our Patient Care Coordinator, is happy to help with scheduling your appointments as well as any challenges you encounter from joining telehealth appointments to understanding your bill. Natalie is a Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) from New York who has had a decade of experience working in the mental health field. Her experience ranges from case management in health insurance, individual therapy, in home behavioral services and adult day programs. More recently, Natalie has transitioned into working as a virtual assistant for mental health practices across the country to continue helping patients in an administrative role. She she is not working, she enjoys traveling, creating art and jewelry as well as spending time with her dog! info@stanleypsychology.com Norlisha Gistarb Billing Specialist Norlisha Gistarb, our Billing Specialist, has worked for over 18 years in the field of Physician Revenue Cycle Management, developing a wealth of knowledge in the field of medical billing. She earned her B.S. in Psychology and her M.A. in Adult Learning and Development from Northwestern State University at Louisiana. ​She has a passion for applying the vast skills and knowledge she has gained over the years for such a meaningful role in assisting mental health providers. Stanley Psychology is very blessed to have her as a part of the team! As Norlisha works behind the scenes, please direct any billing questions to our Patient Care Coordinator, Kelsye, who can consult with Norlisha as indicated. Raider Stanley Certified G.B. (Good Boy) Raider Burreaux Stanley is our 45-pound bundle of love and goofiness. As proof of the Stanley love of sports, Raider is named after Adam's Red Raiders of Texas Tech and Joe Burrow ("Burreaux" is the Cajun way), a legend in Louisiana. Raider is a mix-of-mixes (our favorite kind) and the youngest pup in our pack. Raider has completed two initial trainings and is working towards certification as a therapy dog. Although a bit shy at first, when he warms up, he brings a calming presence. During remote sessions, Raider has strong instincts with when he makes an appearance, often popping up when hearing a patient emotional. If you see him, feel free to say hi! Raider spends his free time lounging on the couch, playing football fetch with his dad, and following his mama around. If Amanda says “let’s go do the therapy, buddy!” he runs with excitement to the remote therapy area and gets comfortable in his spot. I have seen many therapists and nobody has been able to help me...until I found Dr. Amanda Stanley. Dr. Stanley has brought light and hope into my frequently dark world. I finally have hope for a much happier and brighter life.

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT: For therapy inquiries: Providers who accept Aetna, Medicare, BCBS, Scott & White, and self-pay patients have immediate openings available. Dr. Stanley is only accepting a limited number of self-pay patients at this time. We can assist with verifying out-of-network benefits for therapy if you have a different insurance plan. For testing/evaluation inquiries: We are able to immediately accept new requests using insurances we are in-network with and self-pay clients. Send us a message! First Name Last Name Email Phone Number How can we help you? How did you find us? Choose an option SEND Thank you for your message! We will contact you within 24 business hours. Come visit us at Stanley Psychology! 108 North 1st Avenue Mansfield, Texas 76063 Patient Care Coordinator: info@stanleypsychology.com Dr. Stanley: dr.stanley@stanleypsychology.com Office: (817) 592-0750 (call or text) Fax: (817) 259-2491

Jessica Simonetti, M.S. We all most likely know someone with a smartphone. We all also most likely know someone who is always on their phone and never seems to have the ability to set it down. They seem to be addicted to being on their phone at all times. Maybe this person is you or maybe it’s someone you know, but one thing is for sure: there is increased research that suggests using a smartphone or other electronic devices can cause symptoms congruent with an addiction and can potentially cause an increase in ADHD in adults. Smartphone addiction, also known as problematic or compulsive smartphone use, refers to excessive and compulsive use of smartphones or other mobile devices, often to the detriment of one's well-being, relationships, and daily functioning. While smartphones offer numerous benefits such as communication, access to information, and entertainment, excessive use can lead to negative consequences. Some signs of addiction to a cell phone include: Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about or feeling the urge to use the phone, even in inappropriate or unsafe situations. Excessive Use: Spending an excessive amount of time on the phone, often at the expense of other activities such as work, school, or socializing. Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing anxiety, irritability, or distress when unable to use the phone, such as when the battery dies or there is no internet connection. Loss of Control: Difficulty controlling phone use despite efforts to cut back or limit usage. Negative Impact on Relationships: Neglecting relationships with family and friends or experiencing conflict with loved ones due to excessive phone use. Negative Impact on Health: Physical symptoms such as eyestrain, headaches, neck or back pain, and disrupted sleep patterns due to excessive screen time. Impaired Functioning: Decline in academic or work performance, decreased productivity, or neglect of responsibilities due to excessive phone use. Escapism: Using the phone as a means of escaping from stress, boredom, or negative emotions. Previous research indicates that 15% of young American adults aged 18 to 29 rely heavily on their smartphones for online connectivity, with 46% viewing their smartphones as indispensable (Smith, 2015). Toma et. al (2022) completed a study that looked at the effects of smartphone addiction on adult ADHD symptoms and well-being of the user. They found that in connection with smartphone addiction, there was a moderately adverse correlation with well-being and a significantly positive association with symptoms of adult ADHD. Similar findings have been documented by other researchers investigating the repercussions of excessive or problematic utilization of electronic devices—such as addictive conduct contributing to diminished well-being and mental health complications. This can likely be attributed to some of the key traits of ADHD being linked to addictive and problematic behaviors that can occur with smartphone addiction. Another study done by Panagiotidi and Overton (2020) had a sample comprising of 273 healthy adult volunteers who took assessments using the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), the Mobile Phone Problem Usage Scale (MPPUS), and the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS). A noteworthy positive correlation emerged between the ASRS and both scales. Notably, symptoms of inattention and age emerged as predictors of the propensity for smartphone addiction and problematic mobile phone usage. Their findings indicated a favorable association between traits indicative of ADHD and problematic utilization of mobile phones. As you can see, recent studies have revealed a notable overlap between smartphone addiction and ADHD symptoms in adults. Individuals with ADHD may be more susceptible to excessive smartphone use due to factors such as impulsivity, poor impulse control, and difficulty in maintaining attention. However, both smartphone addiction and ADHD can manifest with similar symptoms, and this overlap can sometimes make it challenging to distinguish between the two conditions. The important thing to note is the co-occurrence of smartphone addiction and ADHD can have detrimental effects on various aspects of adult functioning, including work, relationships, and mental well-being. So what can you do if this all sounds similar to what you are experiencing? A big first step is to first admit that you need help. There is nothing wrong with reaching this point and needing help to work past these issues you are facing.  Treatment requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the smartphone addiction and ADHD symptoms simultaneously. This may involve things such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to modify problematic smartphone use patterns and other interventions to manage ADHD symptoms such as medication, psychoeducation, and skills training. Your therapist will work with you to provide education about the relationship between smartphone addiction and ADHD, as well as teach you coping strategies and alternative ways of managing ADHD symptoms. Mindfulness-based interventions, such as mindfulness meditation and progressive muscle relaxation, can help individuals develop greater self-awareness, reduce stress, and improve attentional control. These techniques can be particularly beneficial for managing impulsivity and regulating emotions. It is also important to establish clear boundaries and limitations around your smartphone use, such as setting specific times for phone-free activities or implementing times where your phone is not on for any reason in certain environments. This can help reduce reliance on smartphones and promote healthier habits. Overall, recognizing the interplay between smartphone addiction and ADHD in adults is essential for providing effective intervention and support. By addressing both conditions concurrently, clinicians can help individuals suffering with symptoms in these areas improve their functioning and quality of life again. Jessica is accepting new therapy patients. Please reach out to Stanley Psychology to inquire about services! References Panagiotidi, M., & Overton, P. (2020). Attention deficit hyperactivity symptoms predict problematic mobile phone use. Current Psychology, 41(5), 2765–2771. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-020-00785-2 Smith, A. (2015, April 1). U.S. smartphone use in 2015. Pew Research Center: Internet, Science & Tech. http://www.pewinternet.org/2015/04/01/us-smartphone-use-in-2015/ Toma, R. A., Anderson, C. A., Matichescu, M., Franţ, A., Almǎjan-Guţă, B., Cândea, A., & Bailey, K. (2022). Effects of media use, smart phone addiction, and adult ADHD symptoms on wellbeing of college students during the COVID-19 lockdown: Dispositional hope as a protective factor. Frontiers in Psychology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1019976

Morgan Flores, M.S. As a parent, we want the best for our kids- better than the best! We want them to succeed beyond our limits and be all they can be. While this is in many ways honorable and drives us to do the hard work to set our kids up for success, there is also a dark side to the perfectionism this can fuel. Let’s be real, the “best” can translate to not being content with anything less than our lofty, and often unrealistic, expectations of ourselves and our kids. When reality challenges these expectations as parents we become discouraged, put out, and even depressed. We think thoughts like, “I am not a good enough mom” or “My son is making me look bad because he cannot get his act together and I am embarrassed.”. As a mom about to have three under three (due with baby #3 in April!), I know the feeling of striving to be all and do all for my kids. I inevitably miss the mark of where I want to be and, even in the good moments, I can find myself being drawn to focus on what was left undone or not done well. If we look deeper, it is not just about external situations but our craving for perfection has to do with our inner critic and the drive to try and feel ok with ourselves if we could just be the “best” parent with the “best” kids. In reality, we do not live in a perfect world, we are not perfect people (let alone perfect parents), and we will never have perfect children. Expecting perfection of ourselves and or of our children is a hope that is not based on reality and it leads to frustration and pain. Parents are left evaluating every decision, and every interaction, and feeling less than enough. Their kids learn through observation this is how they should evaluate themselves, not only for performance on external matters but for internal worth. Perfectionism is relentless and it rarely leads to joy. Our value goes way beyond what we do but perfectionism does not let us remember that very often. On the flip side, moving away from perfection: Should parents let their children do whatever they want and excuse inappropriate behavior with comments like, “they are only kids” or “they are only human”? No, because it is also harmful to swing too far to this end of the spectrum and withhold discipline, which is very much needed for kids to learn and have the tools to be successful in life. Some parents can take this extreme and feel, “My child can do no wrong” to the detriment of the very child they love so deeply. Let it be noted, that love is more than warm feelings and positive regard. Consistent and reasonable discipline for the sake of teaching and training your child is in fact very loving. Perfection is too far and doomed to failure. A lack of expectations and limits is not enough. Instead, we can strike a balance with progress over perfection. Progress as a parent is a very freeing concept. It means that we are not required to be perfect but we are intentional to grow. We do not expect the unattainable from our children but we still have the responsibility and privilege of calling out the growth that is appropriate for them to develop and become mature. Progress also leaves room for mistakes, and that is a beautiful thing! Each difficult situation is an opportunity to model humility. Our kids know we are not perfect anyway, so instead of expecting perfection and pretending we have it together, we can demonstrate how to handle failure, frustration, and conflict, saying “I’m sorry,” and forgiving to equip our children to know how to truly thrive in this imperfect world. In this scenario, we will still not attain perfection, but will have a much better chance at setting our kids up for success through modeling how to deal with genuine life challenges with a mindset of progress that normalizes mistakes but still compels us to grow. Who knows, this kind of paradigm shift could be the key to more genuine connections with our kids that has the potential to redefine the “best” to include ongoing growth that is good, not just for our kids, but us as well. Please reach out to our office to inquire about services with Morgan and our other therapists!

Veronica Guerrero-Quan, M.S., Licensed Psychological Associate- Independent Practice During an era of faith deconstruction, we must ask ourselves, “What the heck is causing large groups of people to re-analyze their Christian religious identity and belief system?” As you might suspect, this is multifaceted, and many factors are at play. Arguably, one of the many factors includes that of “church hurt” or “spiritual abuse.” Let me start by defining these phrases; although they can overlap, they are not entirely synonymous. “Church hurt” There is no secret to what this phrase might imply. It’s exactly as you might’ve guessed: church hurt means church hurt! All jokes aside, I would elaborate and clarify that “church hurt” is defined as hurt experienced within a church context or within a church system without necessarily rising to the severity of, or including the dynamics of, spiritual abuse. In other words: spiritual abuse includes church hurt, but church hurt is not always classified as spiritual abuse. Let’s read on to learn what spiritual abuse is! Spiritual Abuse Alright, what is spiritual abuse? Johnson and VanVonderen describe it this way: “Spiritual abuse can occur when a leader uses his or her spiritual position to control or dominate another person. It often involves overriding the feelings and opinions of another without regard to what will result in the other person’s state of living, emotions, or spiritual well-being.” By its very definition, spiritual abuse involves a power dynamic in which the abuser holds power/authority over the individual. Any time the word abuse is utilized in any context (for example, physical or sexual abuse), there is an understanding that the abuser somehow holds greater power than the abused individual (for example, greater physical strength). In the case of spiritual abuse, this power is often a social or hierarchal power granted to the leader by an institution or congregation; this granted authority often supersedes that of the abused individual(s). Thus, a spiritual abuser often holds social status that is hard to stand up against. Like in any case of abuse, it is vital to acknowledge the power difference, because this increases an individual’s vulnerability while diminishing their ability/willingness to advocate for themselves when needed. Now that I’ve highlighted the vitally important-to-note power differential, I want to get more specific on what spiritual abuse can look like. First, let me start with offering several examples of spiritual abuse to paint a picture for you: Being cut off from all communication with church members or leaders due to leaving the congregation or disrupting the group’s “harmony.” Being consistently encouraged or guilt-tripped into cutting ties with family or friends for the sake of pursuing holiness. Receiving extensive spiritual discipline and humiliation from spiritual leadership in front of others with the stated purpose of “lovingly correcting or sanctifying you.” The spiritual leader(s) being the ultimate “holder of truth” or “God’s mouthpiece” to such a degree that others’ opinions or genuine theological questions are silenced, dismissed, or chastised. The list of examples can go on and on, but I will stop here for the purpose of this blogpost. To further clarify the definition of spiritual abuse, allow me to explicitly highlight some very common spiritual abuse dynamics: Authoritarian leadership Discrepancy between leader’s teachings and personal lifestyle (hypocrisy) Discouragement of questions or critical thinking (groupthink) Spiritual suffering on leader’s terms Elitism and persecution Use of spiritual guilt, fear, and intimidation Fostering submission, loyalty, and obedience to spiritual authority Excessive discipline and humiliation This short list implies very dense details that I plan to share more about on future blogposts—so please stay tuned! Devastating Effects of Spiritual Abuse As you might imagine, the effects of spiritual abuse can be tragic. Every person’s experience is as unique as their upbringings and personalities. It can look differently from person-to-person, but I will nonetheless share some common outcomes among the spiritually abused: Distorted image of God Confusion about religious beliefs or worldview Identity confusion Low self-esteem Lack of living skills (for example, financial planning, job skills, social skills) Lack of trust in others Lack of trust in self (for example, distrusting own judgment or perception) This is not a comprehensive list of spiritual abuse outcomes, but it is a general summary of common general outcomes. Also, it is important to note that spiritual abuse can range in severity; typically, spiritual abuse outcome severity reflects spiritual abuse severity. Is there hope? Well, all this all sounds depressing so far… doesn’t it? You might have been wondering when I would get to the positive part. Here it is! As a licensed therapist with clinical knowledge, and as a human with her own healing journey from spiritual abuse, I can boldly state: THERE IS HOPE. Healing looks different from person to person, as everyone’s experiences and outcomes are unique. However, I will say there is hope when someone decides to courageously reach out for help after such devastating experiences! Therapy for the spiritually abused allows for taking inventory of psychological, emotional, relational, and spiritual damage. Mental health concerns are assessed, and therapy treats these concerns compassionately and supportively. What makes therapy unique from other professional or medical interventions is that the therapeutic relationship is generally more personable—and therapists are ethically UNALLOWED to impose their personal beliefs or biases on their therapy patients. This is a very important detail, as many individuals with a history of spiritual abuse fear to be in a one-on-one relationship with authority who will tell them what to think and do. The fear of getting hurt again is very real. I repeat: therapy is NOT about telling patients what to think or do. It is about helping them sort through their mess and find healing, even if it doesn’t line up with the therapist’s own belief system. With all of that said, I will end on this note: Pain is very real, and so is healing. Although pain may barge into our lives uninvited, healing must be invited in. I lovingly challenge you to invite healing into your life and reach out. Reach out to our office to inquire about therapy services with Veronica! References Enroth, R. M. (1992). Churches that abuse. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Churches_That_Abuse Johnson, D., & VanVonderen, J. (2005). The subtle power of spiritual abuse: Recognizing and Escaping Spiritual Manipulation and False Spiritual Authority Within the Church. Baker Books.