Presented By: Natalie Fabert, Ph.D., L.P
Event Schedule
11:50 am - 12:00 pm Check In
12:00 - 1:30 pm Presentation
Program Description
Psychologically abusive, high-control groups—commonly referred to as “cults”—are marked by the systematic exploitation of members through coercive tactics and unethical manipulation. Members may be subjected to a wide range of abuses, including emotional, spiritual, sexual, and physical harm. While cults vary in form (e.g., religious, political, commercial, transformational) they typically share defining features such as a transcendent belief system, a charismatic, authoritarian leader, and a closed structure of control that discourages critical thinking and outside influence.
Cult survivors often experience moral injury, chronic shame, and other mental health symptoms, and many develop Complex PTSD. Social reintegration can be especially challenging, and many survivors struggle to find therapists who understand the unique dynamics of cultic abuse and recovery. Despite the serious mental health needs of this population, most clinicians receive little to no formal training on cults or their psychological impact.
Participants will gain the basic, foundational knowledge and attitudinal awareness needed to provide competent care to self-identified cult survivors. More specifically, participants will:
- Gain an understanding of the nature of cults and the lived experiences of cult members
- Explore the psychological mechanisms of coercion, control, and trauma within cults
- Identify and dispel common myths and misconceptions about who joins cults and why
- Learn practical, trauma-informed strategies for establishing therapeutic rapport and supporting post-cult recovery
This session aims to increase awareness, reduce stigma, and foster more effective and empathetic care for this often-overlooked and vulnerable population.
Program Level: Introductory
Learning Objectives
- Examine at least two typical routes to cult membership through a social psychological perspective.
- Describe two biopsychosocial impacts of cult involvement.
- Identify three common challenges to therapeutic rapport building with cult survivors and how to navigate through them.
1.5 CE will be available for attendance.
