I’m honored to share a deeply personal and transformative conversation with therapist John Clarke on the Going Inside Podcast.
In this episode, I open up about my journey from Christian-based sex addiction therapy to healing religious trauma and embracing Internal Family Systems (IFS). Together, we explore:
✨ The long-lasting impact of religious trauma and how it suppresses identity and agency under the weight of judgment.
✨ The role of shame in addiction, trauma, and self-identity, and how it perpetuates cycles of pain.
✨ How IFS fosters self-compassion, heals internal conflicts, and empowers individuals to reconnect with their authentic selves.
✨ Navigating toxic masculinity, building trust with men, group therapy for men, and finding freedom through vulnerability and authenticity.
This conversation touches on themes of deconstruction, professional transformation, and my mission to help others reclaim their true selves in the face of societal and religious pressures.
If you’ve ever felt trapped by shame, disconnection, or expectations that don’t align with your authentic self, this episode is for you.
Let’s heal, grow, and embrace freedom together.
In compassionate support,
Forest Benedict, LMFT
For more articles on self-connection, codependency, religious trauma, CPTSD, IFS, connection, healing, and beyond, I invite you to check out my blog and follow for future posts here.
*Created with the assistance of AI
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