Holy Hurt

Rebuilding trust, connection, and hope after spiritual trauma Too often the institutions and communities that are meant to be the most holy in our lives end up deeply hurting us. Religious trauma, spiritual abuse, and faith-based wounds can leave lasting scars that impact every aspect of our lives. In Holy Hurt, award-winning clinical psychologist Hillary L. McBride delivers a profound message: spiritual trauma is real, widespread, and has far-reaching consequences. More importantly, she provides hope and practical guidance for those seeking healing from religious trauma and spiritual abuse. You‘ll discover evidence-based healing strategies rooted in clinical research and trauma therapy techniques; real stories of recovery from survivors of spiritual abuse and religious trauma; practices at the end of each chapter ed to support your healing journey; expert insights from leading trauma therapists, spiritual abuse counselors, and recovery specialists; and tools for prevention to help create healthier faith communities and protect against spiritual manipulation. McBride expertly combines clinical research, trauma literature, and compelling interviews with experts to create a comprehensive guide for spiritual trauma recovery. Each chapter includes first-person accounts of healing and practices to help readers process their experiences and begin their journey toward wholeness. This essential resource empowers trauma survivors, family members, clergy, counselors, and anyone seeking to understand the complex dynamics of spiritual abuse. Whether you‘re healing from religious trauma, supporting someone who has experienced it, or working to prevent it in faith communities, Holy Hurt offers the clinical expertise and compassionate guidance you need.