Episode 4: 1/3 Spiritual Abuse with Kelsey Moffatt, LCSW

Summary
In this conversation, Tina Motley and Kelsey Moffitt discuss the topic of spiritual abuse. Kelsey, a licensed clinical social worker, shares her expertise on ethical integration of faith into clinical practice and the importance of addressing religion and spirituality in mental health treatment.
They explore the definition of spiritual abuse and its various forms, including abuse within church contexts and the role of pastors and church leaders. They also discuss the impact of spiritual abuse on individuals, such as animosity towards religion and a distorted view of God.
The conversation touches on the covert nature of spiritual abuse and the importance of accountability and repentance. They also address the issue of modesty and the purity culture movement, emphasizing the need for grace and love in discussions about clothing choices.
The conversation concludes with a reminder that God hates abuse and that there is hope and support available for those who have experienced spiritual abuse.Keywordsspiritual abuse, ethical integration, faith, clinical practice, religion, spirituality, mental health, trauma, church, pastors, church leaders, covert abuse, grooming, narcissism, modesty, purity culture, accountability, repentance, grace, loveTakeaways

• Addressing religion and spirituality in mental health treatment is important for holistic care

• Spiritual abuse can occur in church contexts and involve pastors and church leaders

• Covert abuse can be subtle and manipulative, often using religious authority

• Grooming behavior involves gradually building trust and crossing boundaries

• Modesty discussions should involve grace, love, and consideration of both genders

• Listening to one's body and seeking support are important in recognizing and addressing spiritual abuse


• Grooming Behavior and Boundaries

• Modesty, Purity Culture, and Grace


• "If we're not being trained up on how to assess for what faith looks like for our clients, then we're gonna miss potentially one of the biggest parts of their lives."

• "Spiritual abuse is any form of hurting or harming somebody at the hands of religion."

• "Abuse happens when a person wields biblical doctrine or spiritual authority to manipulate, dominate, deflect or direct the narrative in his or her favor."

00:00Introduction and Background
06:54Defining and Recognizing Spiritual Abuse
28:18Modesty, Purity Culture, and Grace
37:45Listening to Your Body and Seeking Support