Module 6: Developing Self-Compassion, Self-Trust, and Embodied Boundaries

This module examines how high-control religious systems erode an individual’s internal sense of safety, autonomy, and worth by enforcing an external locus of control. Through chronic messaging that frames bodily instincts, emotions, and intuition as untrustworthy or sinful, survivors are taught to override internal signals in favor of obedience, approval, or spiritual authority. Clinicians will explore how this conditioning compromises trauma recovery by disrupting three core capacities: self-compassion, which is often viewed as selfishness; self-trust, which is systematically dismantled through emotional and spiritual surveillance; and personal boundaries, which are pathologized in favor of submission and self-denial. These patterns foster nervous system dysregulation, learned helplessness, and freeze/fawn states, leaving survivors disconnected from their own agency and internal guidance systems.

In the second half of the module, clinicians will learn and practice three body-based interventions designed to rebuild self-compassion, restore self-trust, and support embodied boundary development. These somatic tools integrate principles from trauma neuroscience, attachment theory, and polyvagal-informed care. Through guided practice, participants will learn how to help clients reconnect with their bodies as sources of safety and wisdom, replacing shame-based compliance with relational and embodied healing. These interventions offer survivors of high-control religion a practical, non-verbal path toward reclaiming autonomy, emotional regulation, and internal safety in the aftermath of spiritual trauma.

This course is approved by APA and NBCC for 1 Continuing Education Credits.