Uploaded October 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
ICSA 2025 Conference - Montreal, QC
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Liz Sallows
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Abstract: There are many aspects involved in recovery from cultic and religious abuse. Cultic abuse often carries with it the concept of putting one’s self or personhood aside for the betterment of the cultic organization. The teaching, both overt and covert, that one is less than worthwhile, damages the innate sense of who we are and who we can be. The reduction of self worth, shown by not caring for specific needs, not listening when someone speaks, not validating concerns and feelings, or being told the base nature is wrong, suspect or even evil, can develop an inner struggle of acceptance that one has value after all. A significant area of recovery from this abuse is the development of a healthy sense of self, along with a firm sense of personal self-worth. While this recovery can take time, the development of an understanding of the advantages of a self-care practice as a tool to enable recovery has been seen to be significantly helpful. This understanding is helpful for those who are first generation survivors, and those who have left as further generations. This will be a presentation of what self-care truly is and how self-care can be so beneficial to those who have experienced cultic and religious abuse. The presentation will share how self-care can be presented and implemented, for professionals in the field of trauma recovery, as well as those who are assisting friends and family members who are in the process of reclaiming themselves.
ICSA 2025 Conference - Montreal, QC
-
Liz Sallows
-
Abstract: There are many aspects involved in recovery from cultic and religious abuse. Cultic abuse often carries with it the concept of putting one’s self or personhood aside for the betterment of the cultic organization. The teaching, both overt and covert, that one is less than worthwhile, damages the innate sense of who we are and who we can be. The reduction of self worth, shown by not caring for specific needs, not listening when someone speaks, not validating concerns and feelings, or being told the base nature is wrong, suspect or even evil, can develop an inner struggle of acceptance that one has value after all. A significant area of recovery from this abuse is the development of a healthy sense of self, along with a firm sense of personal self-worth. While this recovery can take time, the development of an understanding of the advantages of a self-care practice as a tool to enable recovery has been seen to be significantly helpful. This understanding is helpful for those who are first generation survivors, and those who have left as further generations. This will be a presentation of what self-care truly is and how self-care can be so beneficial to those who have experienced cultic and religious abuse. The presentation will share how self-care can be presented and implemented, for professionals in the field of trauma recovery, as well as those who are assisting friends and family members who are in the process of reclaiming themselves.
