discover your path to freedom

Leaving a high-control religious or spiritual environment can be disorienting. After years of harmful beliefs or practices, separating those teachings from your true identity is challenging. Rediscovering yourself and reclaiming autonomy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.

We’ve walked this path. For 20 years, we were part of a toxic church that shaped our beliefs through manipulation. Our journey out led to healing, a deeper connection with God, and a profound understanding of the tactics, culture, and power that unhealthy, cult-like organizations operate in. This has compelled us to reach out and help others.

With compassion and expertise, our counseling at Anchor of Hope Therapy and The Way Out to Freedom helps individuals and families heal from emotional, psychological, and spiritual wounds caused by high-control cults or harmful religious or spiritual environments. Spiritual trauma, or "church hurt," can occur in settings like religious communities, spiritual organizations, Bible study circles, or online faith communities, and is not limited to cults. These challenges exist on a spectrum, experienced uniquely by each person. We support clients in working through their experiences, rediscovering a sense of self and personal beliefs without judgment, free from any specific agenda or belief system. Our approach fosters healing, rebuilds identity, restores trust, and strengthens relationships where it is safe and healthy, empowering individuals to reclaim their lives with resilience and clarity.

As Certified Think Differently Mental Health Life Coaches, we provide trauma-informed counseling nationwide, offering a safe, confidential space to heal emotional and spiritual wounds. Drawing from our training and personal experiences with emotional and spiritual abuse, we guide individuals to rebuild their lives and move forward with confidence.

Stephen, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Texas and Certified Life Coach, holds a master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Abilene Christian University and a B.A. in Psychology from Hope College. Kristy is a Certified Life Coach. Meet with Stephen and Kristy together or individually.

We create a compassionate environment for lasting change. We understand the unique challenges of deconstructing deep-rooted beliefs from high-control religions. Every step of your journey is respected with the utmost confidentiality.

Your healing matters. Anchor of Hope Therapy and The Way Out to Freedom are here to walk with you as you reclaim your autonomy and find emotional and spiritual freedom. Contact us to explore our Spiritual Trauma and Cult Recovery Counseling services and begin your journey to wholeness.