As a Christian organization we only recommend healing methods that are approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) and even with that, we do so with trepidation. For APA approval, the modality must pass certain guidelines that are scientifically proven. This includes EMDR, neurofeedback, talk therapy, sand box and others. These modalities can only be administered by a trained clinician which generally includes a licensed social worker or counselor, psychologist, etc. We do not support or recommend any healing modalities that include new age alternatives. The new age which includes shamanism, energy healing, witchcraft, and some forms of massage therapy are a slippery slope. We say this because their methods are demonically inspired. It was demons who got you into the ritual abuse, don’t expect demons to get you out. Only God and His word can heal you. Time and personal effort is also required for healing. Satanic methods offer quick healing and may provide temporary relief, but it is a ruse. Mystical activities are always demonic. Do not be aligned with darkness. It is a dead end road and will harm your spiritual, emotional and mental life. We know this by experience.
We are also aware that many ritual abuse survivors have been raped by a man dressed as Jesus. We know that scripture was used in rituals and that harm was caused in the name of God/Jesus. We are so sorry that this happened. Evil men will use religion to justify their crimes. The reality is that God and the real Jesus Christ (Yeshua, Jehovah, etc.) loves survivors immensely and are heartbroken by what happened to you. But please don’t throw out the baby with the bathwater. God created you and He knows exactly what you need for healing. Run to the Savior for answers. Don’t run to a new age guru. The Bible says that there are deceivers who come to destroy. There are people who will profit off of your suffering. Be assured that long term healing takes time and effort. Nothing worth keeping comes easy, especially for survivors of ritual abuse.
What We Do Recommend
We do think you should see a licensed counselor on a regular basis. If you can’t afford one, we also recommend a biblical counselor. Biblical counselors have been trained and have received accreditation through seminary or a faith based program. They understand God’s word but have counseling experience. You do not have to be a Christian to see a biblical counselor. We trust these types of counselors because they will have your best interest at heart. Biblical counselors charge less money for sessions. The average counseling rate for licensed clinicians is $150+ on average. Biblical counselors charge half that amount so it’s more cost effective for cash pay clients. We can provide you with a list of such counselors. These counselors can see clients nationwide online unlike secular mental health professionals who are licensed in each state.
We recommend you pray to God about your situation. In the US, 81% of the population believes in God. God is real and he loves his creation which includes you. God is all powerful and all knowing. Many ask me if God is so good and powerful, why did He let this abuse happen to me? That’s a good question and one we won’t know the answer to until we’re on the other side of eternity. What I can say is that God was with you while the abuse happened. He did not condone the abuse. He hated it. But know that we live in a fallen world and evil men are allowed to perpetrate because of free will and because satan is real. You know he is real because of the evil things that were done to you. Satan is the cause of your abuse and we are in a battle of good against evil. God is behind every loving, peaceful and kind thing that was ever done to you or for you. Satan is behind everything that was wrong, evil and painful. You survived your abuse so that you could live to warn others and help victims.
We recommend exercise. Having a daily walk outside in the fresh air is critical for your healing. Exercise is good for the heart, mind and emotions. Exercise releases toxic emotions, feelings and physical pain.
We recommend seeing a doctor for medication. Not everyone finds relief from medication. This is completely up to you but many survivors of abuse have found help through prescriptions that address chemical imbalances and hormonal deficiencies which are depleted during stress. We do not recommend psychedelics as this can make your situation worse. Psychedelics open your mind but not in a good way and it can lead to more bondage, not less. Please heed this warning. If your counselor suggests psychedelics, find a new counselor.
We recommend journaling your memories. Though painful, recalling and talking or writing about your memories is extremely healing and beneficial. Writing manually helps to get the yucky emotions and thoughts out. There is a scientific explanation for this. Another benefit to writing your memories is to serve as court admissible documentation that will help if you ever decide to criminally or civilly prosecute your abuser. Keep track of all your medical records, counseling reports and other healthcare documents because they are also admissible in court. We want to point out that participating in hypnotherapy is not a good idea. Any memories reported through hypnotherapy are not admissible in court. We regard hypnotherapy as another new age tool which is dangerous as you are putting your life into someone else’s hands. Never let another human control you in this manner. You need to be completely aware of what is happening in your sessions.
Below is a video we found that can explain all of these points above in a concise, clear way. Though the woman in this video is a Mormon, her advice rings true nonetheless.