Surviving Religious Trauma With Allyson

Chris has a profound discussion with clinical director Allyson Pelletier. Allyson recounts her harrowing experiences with abuse and the pivotal moments that forged her path as a therapist specializing in trauma and addiction. The in-depth dialogue exposes the prevalence of predators within trusted institutions and underscores the crucial message for individuals to heed their intuition. Allyson discusses the intricacies of trauma, the healing power of therapy, and her focus on trauma amongst women and utilizing EMDR therapy. Allyson’s journey from victim to healer and advocate offers hope for trauma survivors. 

0:48 – Allyson talks about her childhood. 

3:46 – Burnout from doing Gymnastics prompts reevaluation of life priorities.

9:06 – First weird encounter with manipulative religious justifications. 

12:39 – Affair with a married man leads to upheaval. 

14:55 – Rejected and abandoned due to the inappropriate relationship. 

17:32 – Struggled with self-harm, hiding it, and attempting suicide.

22:37 – The Church can harbor predators which is a concerning reality.

25:04 – “Grad school helped me heal and understand trauma.”

27:06 – Pressure from her family’s church community to forgive the uncomfortable situation.

32:42 – Podcast brings healing but also painful memories.

35:14 – “EMDR therapy improved my intimacy struggles.”

37:26 – Specialized in trauma and addiction counseling at different rehab facilities.

40:41 – Traumatic client experience led to leaving rehab. 

46:05 – Specializing in trauma therapy for young adults and women. 

47:22 – Grateful for open, honest, and helpful conversation.