Great interview, Chris! We need more folks like Rachel out there! We truly have a dearth of therapists who know how to handle cult survivors. She's very good and obviously knows her stuff! And: Once someone harms you for their own gain, they lose the right to have you keep their secrets. Beautiful. If only every schoolchild could be taught this, what abuses might be reported instantly, instead of hidden for years!
This video series is what helped me to leave the cult I was in for 7 yrs, its been 2 years now and I now make my own videos on the experience while I build a coaching business around helping people get through the trauma of being in a cult and spiritual abuse so thank u!
Tina Marie J. - Hey my Sistah!..I love your videos!..Keep the positive energy going! Yes, this is a very eye-opening video!. Chris and Rachel are awesome!..Chris has been in many videos with John Cedars (Lloyd Evans)... They have been very instrumental in my waking up process. Let's keep fighting!! 💯👍
Really informative interview Chris! You know how to ask questions and then be quiet--a strangely rare skill with some interviewers! Rachel is so knowledgable and very easy to listen to and learn from. Thank you!
DreamingCatStudio Yes, it is a skill lacking among many contemporary interviewers ;-) I can't believe that I'm going to say this - but quite possibly the ability to be comfortable with the silence of others, and the kind of unusual way Chris is able to assertively hold eye contact with others are examples of the (I'm guessing) relatively few positive things gained by having spent years in Scientology! I'm just saying that it is part of the skill set I've observed amongst ex-Scientologists. I am in no way an apologist for any Destructive Cult.
Interesting parallels can be drawn between being in a cult and being in an abusive romantic relationship, especially when you get to talking about leaving and recovery.
Great video I came out of a cult now I'm learning to help others come out , I think that after experiencing things espically the abuse is important to help others that have been in my shoes great video !
Another great video -- thank you, Chris! Your videos are always very informative and important, but they never feel heavy because you always bring your light and fun spirit.
Each cult is destructive! A cult exist only through the narcissistic personality of the cult leaders and their inner circle. I have been in a worldwide cult which is sadly enough not mentioned as destructive. People were abuse on many different ways. You only experience how destructive they are if you are in.
wow these videos are amazing. so glad I stumbled on it! I'm currently leaving the church of Christ due to all of these cult activities. this video confirms it for me even more. so glad to hear it from a cult therapist
Hi Tim, just a loving request. Please distinguish that you are leaving the International Church of Christ, and not the United Church of Christ which has been around for many years and stands for social justice by indoctrinating the first Black pastor, the first gay, etc. There is a VAST difference between the two, and I don't want to have people being confused. Aside from that I celebrate your new freedom! I wish you all the best in your journey.
The "act now" thing is used by catalogs, too. I have gotten some catalogs that say something like "final notice, order now!". Final? How about the fact that it is also the first time I've gotten the catalog! It doesn't wash.
I am spiritual but not religious and I have encountered much of this tyranny of cults of personality in the new age and conspiracy communities without even being an official member of any group. There are tons of individuals like this who create the air of a cult just by being who they are, which invariably are damaged individuals with charismatic personalities. I appreciate so much this interview because for many years I would fall into this trap again and again (thanks codependency) of finding charismatic types who I fell under their spell only to find they were stone cold manipulators who wanted nothing more than my time, energy and/or money. I appreciate Dr. Bernstein's words even if she casts a jaundiced eye at psychics and psychic ability. She should know that not all of us are scam artists or narcissists with delusions of grandeur and that there are studies that prove it is real- especially if you look at telepathy experiments. But over all I do appreciate this and you very much Chris- you are that rare voice of reason who compassionately asserts that people can believe and experience whatever they want, but who can also look at destructive personality types and really examine when something becomes dangerous with a calm, cool, clear eye. Thank you, most humanist/rationalist/atheist groups cannot do that and very often throw the baby out with the bathwater. The reason I can't find helpful therapy for myself is precisely this aggressive and obnoxious 19th century pervasive idea that psychic anything is flim-flam from the psychoanalytic/therapeutic community. My mother was a state-licensed, board certified psychologist for 20+ years with the state of Ohio and did my psych eval when I finally told her about my paranormal experiences btw. She told me I wasn't crazy and that I needed to seek out people like myself to learn about my abilities. I wish more therapists were that open minded/compassionate. Instead, vulnerable people in my situation find ourselves repeatedly fearful of being involuntarily institutionalized like I was for decades, and/or absolutely treated like garbage and with complete overt hostility by most therapists (who for the most part are atheists I have found).
They see no wrong in the harm they cause people mentally they sweep it under the rug as if it's nothing. They also call it something small such as church hurt 🤕. In other words what they had done to you mentally is a cut on the hand rather then the truth mental, emotional and phycological abuse behind what they believe and who they believe who you supposed to be because of their attitude about who people are suppose to be. You said something right in the beginning of this video they behave like Narcissist when it comes to people and you can't question or feel a certain way behind the abuse they have intentionally caused you mentally and intentionally. I don't involve myself with certain family ever again they was apart of the mental attack and harrassment with the technology that was put inside of me without my consent.
I left the Christain, baptist faith belief system. I went through so much manliption and attack on my mind with the churches and the black people in that belief system. They attacked my mind used technology and did all kinds of things to me against my will using this technology that they put in my head against my will. I have felt better every since I grieved the whole and walked away from it. What they did was so much and cost me such a bad mental stress and depression. I went through Alot of loss a divorce that needed to happen, a move and leaving the Christain faith belief system it felt so much better walking away from all where I use to live, toxic family, my marriage and the belief and It's getting better for sure. No one should have went through what i went through with the churches and attack on my mind and brutal cruel harrassment and doctrine I never in my life knew that people behaved that was and more importantly that people of my own black skin color really acted and believe that they have a right to do what they did as if they are in fact God themselves.
There must be positive things about cults which draw people in. For example, I think many cults give people (1) a view of the world which explains almost everything - AKA a worldview. (2) an explanation for how life, including cult members lives, will get better. E.g. when we submit ourselves to God (or do whatever), crime, strife, unhappiness will reduce. These promises or illusions, offered by cults seem particularly compelling to young people, who may be unhappy with their lives and the world as it is. Please tell us how Scientology claimed to improve one's life w.r.t. to (1) and (2) above.
39:50 ICSA International cultic Studies Association (with a lot of info about cults and mind control) or freedomofminds Steven Hassans organisation, she also recommends Wellspring in Ohio (even though a web search tell it is a Christian institution)
l can relate this narrative to how humanity in general is being controlled or manipulated by our political leaders and glovalust via religion and educational institutions or within family!
two birds I can tell you that when I attended some SGI meetings, everyone was chanting in unison at high speed. It was hypnotic. I asked some members what language was this? They did not know. I asked them if they knew what was being said in the sutra, they said they didn’t know the English translation. They were worshipping something they didn’t understand, which to me sounded like a cult and I haven’t been back.
From "Lady Squash" on the UB, in case you didn't see it there: Hi Chris, loved your interview with Rachel Bernstein. I went to your channel and gave you a "like" and I tried to leave a comment, but it didn't post. So here it is: Hi Chris, I am an ex-Scientologist-out about 4 years. Thank you for doing the interview. I hope the word gets out that there are therapists out there who understand what it's like. I certainly could have used one. I was so freaked out. Anyway, I wonder if you can address at some point the financial issue. How does someone getting out of a cult have the money to see a therapist. Speaking for myself, I couldn't have done this. The other question I hope you have time to address is specifically about Scientology. I am curious about whether it is more difficult to recover from than other cults. I know this would be difficult to answer for many reasons, but still I'd like to hear what Rachel might say about it. Enjoyed the interview. Thanks again and keep up the good work. Lady
+Kate X Thanks for your comment. Check out the rest of our interview and you can always email Rachel for advice or direction. International Cultic Studies Association is also a resource: icsahome.com.
+ Kate X Help with revovery from cults - see my statement regarding EFT or meridian tapping under user taylor - you might find it helpful to navigate stress, being worried, triggered, or just down
its hilarious that u use the example of car salesmen because I have always said that when I was recruited into the church of Christ I felt like I was being sold a car. there was always such urgency as if this was a once in a lifetime opportunity and if I didn't hurry and join then something unfortunate would happen to me.
L C Every meeting one is encouraged to affirm their "disease." However, the 3rd step is helpful to understand God. It was only with His help that removed those uncontrollable urges. Happy Easter. ✌&💘
You're right L C, but the Big Book also claims AA doesn't hold a corner on the market to the solution, and one does not have to affirm their disease/addiction. All that's necessary for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Many groups give that impression, but if you read the traditions, you don't have to claim that. Yes, there may be some aspects that seem cultish, but they don't chase you down if you don't come back. They don't tie you down to membership fees, or schedules. The 90 meeting in 90 day stuff is treatment center talk. It may not be for everyone, but hay my beginning days in AA have led to 35 years of continuing sobriety. No one hollerscat me because I don't go anymore. Yet, I still work the program and associate with only those who don't have a problem.
Great interview, Chris! We need more folks like Rachel out there! We truly have a dearth of therapists who know how to handle cult survivors. She's very good and obviously knows her stuff!
And: Once someone harms you for their own gain, they lose the right to have you keep their secrets. Beautiful. If only every schoolchild could be taught this, what abuses might be reported instantly, instead of hidden for years!
This video series is what helped me to leave the cult I was in for 7 yrs, its been 2 years now and I now make my own videos on the experience while I build a coaching business around helping people get through the trauma of being in a cult and spiritual abuse so thank u!
You are very welcome. Good luck in your work!
Chris Shelton Thanks!!
Tina Marie J. - Hey my Sistah!..I love your videos!..Keep the positive energy going!
Yes, this is a very eye-opening video!. Chris and Rachel are awesome!..Chris has been in many videos with John Cedars (Lloyd Evans)... They have been very instrumental in my waking up process.
Let's keep fighting!! 💯👍
Really informative interview Chris! You know how to ask questions and then be quiet--a strangely rare skill with some interviewers! Rachel is so knowledgable and very easy to listen to and learn from. Thank you!
DreamingCatStudio Yes, it is a skill lacking among many contemporary interviewers ;-)
I can't believe that I'm going to say this - but quite possibly the ability to be comfortable with the silence of others, and the kind of unusual way Chris is able to assertively hold eye contact with others are examples of the (I'm guessing) relatively few positive things gained by having spent years in Scientology!
I'm just saying that it is part of the skill set I've observed amongst ex-Scientologists. I am in no way an apologist for any Destructive Cult.
Interesting parallels can be drawn between being in a cult and being in an abusive romantic relationship, especially when you get to talking about leaving and recovery.
Boy, this lady has got their number. Fascinating listen, thanks so much to both of you.
Great video I came out of a cult now I'm learning to help others come out , I think that after experiencing things espically the abuse is important to help others that have been in my shoes great video !
Awesome information. Brought back memories and triggers from when I left a cult 15 years ago... so helpful.
Another great video -- thank you, Chris! Your videos are always very informative and important, but they never feel heavy because you always bring your light and fun spirit.
Great interview Chris thank you
Very interesting and informative!
Thank you. 👍
So impressive. I hope this decompression is prevalent in mainstream mental health.
Each cult is destructive! A cult exist only through the narcissistic personality of the cult leaders and their inner circle. I have been in a worldwide cult which is sadly enough not mentioned as destructive. People were abuse on many different ways. You only experience how destructive they are if you are in.
Brilliant !
wow these videos are amazing. so glad I stumbled on it! I'm currently leaving the church of Christ due to all of these cult activities. this video confirms it for me even more. so glad to hear it from a cult therapist
Hi Tim, just a loving request. Please distinguish that you are leaving the International Church of Christ, and not the United Church of Christ which has been around for many years and stands for social justice by indoctrinating the first Black pastor, the first gay, etc. There is a VAST difference between the two, and I don't want to have people being confused. Aside from that I celebrate your new freedom! I wish you all the best in your journey.
The "act now" thing is used by catalogs, too. I have gotten some catalogs that say something like "final notice, order now!". Final? How about the fact that it is also the first time I've gotten the catalog! It doesn't wash.
I am spiritual but not religious and I have encountered much of this tyranny of cults of personality in the new age and conspiracy communities without even being an official member of any group. There are tons of individuals like this who create the air of a cult just by being who they are, which invariably are damaged individuals with charismatic personalities. I appreciate so much this interview because for many years I would fall into this trap again and again (thanks codependency) of finding charismatic types who I fell under their spell only to find they were stone cold manipulators who wanted nothing more than my time, energy and/or money. I appreciate Dr. Bernstein's words even if she casts a jaundiced eye at psychics and psychic ability. She should know that not all of us are scam artists or narcissists with delusions of grandeur and that there are studies that prove it is real- especially if you look at telepathy experiments. But over all I do appreciate this and you very much Chris- you are that rare voice of reason who compassionately asserts that people can believe and experience whatever they want, but who can also look at destructive personality types and really examine when something becomes dangerous with a calm, cool, clear eye. Thank you, most humanist/rationalist/atheist groups cannot do that and very often throw the baby out with the bathwater. The reason I can't find helpful therapy for myself is precisely this aggressive and obnoxious 19th century pervasive idea that psychic anything is flim-flam from the psychoanalytic/therapeutic community. My mother was a state-licensed, board certified psychologist for 20+ years with the state of Ohio and did my psych eval when I finally told her about my paranormal experiences btw. She told me I wasn't crazy and that I needed to seek out people like myself to learn about my abilities. I wish more therapists were that open minded/compassionate. Instead, vulnerable people in my situation find ourselves repeatedly fearful of being involuntarily institutionalized like I was for decades, and/or absolutely treated like garbage and with complete overt hostility by most therapists (who for the most part are atheists I have found).
Cults "use people"
They see no wrong in the harm they cause people mentally they sweep it under the rug as if it's nothing. They also call it something small such as church hurt 🤕. In other words what they had done to you mentally is a cut on the hand rather then the truth mental, emotional and phycological abuse behind what they believe and who they believe who you supposed to be because of their attitude about who people are suppose to be. You said something right in the beginning of this video they behave like Narcissist when it comes to people and you can't question or feel a certain way behind the abuse they have intentionally caused you mentally and intentionally. I don't involve myself with certain family ever again they was apart of the mental attack and harrassment with the technology that was put inside of me without my consent.
I left the Christain, baptist faith belief system. I went through so much manliption and attack on my mind with the churches and the black people in that belief system. They attacked my mind used technology and did all kinds of things to me against my will using this technology that they put in my head against my will. I have felt better every since I grieved the whole and walked away from it. What they did was so much and cost me such a bad mental stress and depression. I went through Alot of loss a divorce that needed to happen, a move and leaving the Christain faith belief system it felt so much better walking away from all where I use to live, toxic family, my marriage and the belief and It's getting better for sure. No one should have went through what i went through with the churches and attack on my mind and brutal cruel harrassment and doctrine I never in my life knew that people behaved that was and more importantly that people of my own black skin color really acted and believe that they have a right to do what they did as if they are in fact God themselves.
Hi Chris great 👍🏻
One leader, founder or guru can start a Cult.
Do one on Amway
There must be positive things about cults which draw people in. For example, I think many cults give people
(1) a view of the world which explains almost everything - AKA a worldview.
(2) an explanation for how life, including cult members lives, will get better. E.g. when we submit ourselves to God (or do whatever), crime, strife, unhappiness will reduce.
These promises or illusions, offered by cults seem particularly compelling to young people, who may be unhappy with their lives and the world as it is.
Please tell us how Scientology claimed to improve one's life w.r.t. to (1) and (2) above.
39:50 ICSA International cultic Studies Association (with a lot of info about cults and mind control) or freedomofminds Steven Hassans organisation, she also recommends Wellspring in Ohio (even though a web search tell it is a Christian institution)
l can relate this narrative to how humanity in general is being controlled or manipulated by our political leaders and glovalust via religion and educational institutions or within family!
Can you please tell me if you think that the soka gakki international is a cult.It seems to fit some of things.
two birds I can tell you that when I attended some SGI meetings, everyone was chanting in unison at high speed. It was hypnotic. I asked some members what language was this? They did not know. I asked them if they knew what was being said in the sutra, they said they didn’t know the English translation. They were worshipping something they didn’t understand, which to me sounded like a cult and I haven’t been back.
ms bernsein...smart and beautiful..i
I had a friend who got into the brotherhood and lived out of dumpsters
From "Lady Squash" on the UB, in case you didn't see it there:
Hi Chris, loved your interview with Rachel Bernstein. I went to your channel and gave you a "like" and I tried to leave a comment, but it didn't post. So here it is: Hi Chris, I am an ex-Scientologist-out about 4 years. Thank you for doing the interview. I hope the word gets out that there are therapists out there who understand what it's like. I certainly could have used one. I was so freaked out.
Anyway, I wonder if you can address at some point the financial issue. How does someone getting out of a cult have the money to see a therapist. Speaking for myself, I couldn't have done this.
The other question I hope you have time to address is specifically about Scientology. I am curious about whether it is more difficult to recover from than other cults. I know this would be difficult to answer for many reasons, but still I'd like to hear what Rachel might say about it.
Enjoyed the interview. Thanks again and keep up the good work. Lady
+Kate X Thanks for your comment. Check out the rest of our interview and you can always email Rachel for advice or direction. International Cultic Studies Association is also a resource: icsahome.com.
+ Kate X Help with revovery from cults - see my statement regarding EFT or meridian tapping under user taylor - you might find it helpful to navigate stress, being worried, triggered, or just down
its hilarious that u use the example of car salesmen because I have always said that when I was recruited into the church of Christ I felt like I was being sold a car. there was always such urgency as if this was a once in a lifetime opportunity and if I didn't hurry and join then something unfortunate would happen to me.
What about 12 step programs?
I think they’re cultish, more mild than Scientology, but group think, no disagreement with big book allowed, etc. Keep coming back.
L C Every meeting one is encouraged to affirm their "disease." However, the 3rd step is helpful to understand God. It was only with His help that removed those uncontrollable urges. Happy Easter. ✌&💘
🐣
You're right L C, but the Big Book also claims AA doesn't hold a corner on the market to the solution, and one does not have to affirm their disease/addiction. All that's necessary for membership is a desire to stop drinking. Many groups give that impression, but if you read the traditions, you don't have to claim that. Yes, there may be some aspects that seem cultish, but they don't chase you down if you don't come back. They don't tie you down to membership fees, or schedules. The 90 meeting in 90 day stuff is treatment center talk. It may not be for everyone, but hay my beginning days in AA have led to 35 years of continuing sobriety. No one hollerscat me because I don't go anymore. Yet, I still work the program and associate with only those who don't have a problem.
Imagine leaving islam in muslim country
is amway a cult?
👍
Brilliant !