Episode 12 · September 7, 2026 · 45 min
Spiritual Abuse: Something We Are Not Meant to Hold Onto
What happens when spiritual abuse and church hurt distort your view of God, discipleship, and your own identity? In this episode of the Reclaiming Identity Podcast, Abbi DeWitt welcomes first-time guest Rosie Tanner for a compassionate conversation about spiritual abuse recovery, religious trauma, healthy church community, and healing in Christ. Rosie shares her personal story of experiencing abuse and learning to distinguish between biblical conviction and spiritual control. Together, Abbi and Rosie discuss the ways manipulation, shame, unhealthy expectations, and misuse of spiritual authority can leave deep wounds—and how safe community, healthy discipleship, truth, and the love of Jesus can become part of healing. If you have experienced church hurt, toxic leadership, religious manipulation, or spiritual trauma, this episode offers hope: what happened to you was not God's design, and your identity is not defined by the harm you endured. Healing is possible, faith can be rebuilt, and you do not have to take the next step alone. Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose! * Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org * Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching * Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch * Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014 #SpiritualAbuse #ChurchHurt #ReligiousTrauma #TraumaHealing #HealingFromTrauma #SpiritualAbuseRecovery #HealingFromChurchHurt #IdentityInChrist #ChristianHealing #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndHealing #HealthyChurch #BiblicalHealing #ChurchTrauma #ReclaimingIdentity
Open this episode
