Have you been told you "just have church hurt" — but something inside you knows it goes deeper than that? In this episode, counselor and author Elisha walks through the clinical and biblical distinction between church hurt and spiritual abuse — and gives you a framework to finally know which one you're actually carrying.
What you'll learn in this episode:
✦ The clinical definition of church hurt vs. spiritual abuse
✦ 5 markers of spiritual abuse in faith communities (including spiritual gaslighting)
✦ What the Bible actually says about leaders who harm the flock (Ezekiel 34, Matthew 18:6)
✦ How to apply the R.E.S.T. Framework to religious trauma recovery
✦ A guided somatic exercise to begin releasing what your body has been holding ✦ Your 7-day naming challenge
If your nervous system activated while listening — that is not weakness. That is information. And you deserve an accurate diagnosis.
📌 Resources & Community:
→ Restoring You Christian Counseling: Website
→ Book a session: Book an Initial Consultation
→ Subscribe for weekly healing conversations
🔑 Topics covered: religious trauma, church hurt, spiritual abuse recovery, spiritual gaslighting, toxic church, trauma-informed faith, nervous system healing, Christian counseling, healing from spiritual abuse