When Enmeshment Trauma Becomes Spiritually Abusive
Episode 159In today's episode, we explore the intersection of enmeshment trauma and spiritual abuse. If you're new to the concept, enmeshment trauma occurs in families that are too close to the point where individual boundaries and self-identity are compromised. This episode delves into the signs and impacts of enmeshment trauma, such as poor boundaries, lack of self-identity, feeling overly responsible for others and constant seeking of approval. I also discuss how these dynamics can lead to spiritual abuse within both families and faith communities, particularly through the misuse of authority and abuse of conscience. Offering insights and personal experiences, this episode aims to help you recognise and heal from these harmful patterns especially when they are cloaked in beautiful and ‘holy’ language such as ‘accountability’ and ‘fraternal correction’.Watch this recording on YouTube.Follow me on my Instagram account @animann for more material on the integration journey and subscribe to my monthly reflections on Begin Again.RESOURCESHoly Hurt: Understanding Spiritual Trauma and the Process of Healing (Book)Holy Hurt (Podcast) Understanding Enmeshment Trauma Enmeshment in Family: Breaking Free from Unhealthy Closeness CHAPTER MARKERS00:00 Introduction00:11 Understanding Enmeshment Trauma02:33 Healthy Intimacy vs. Enmeshment05:27 Spiritual and Religious Trauma09:56 What is Enmeshment Trauma?13:01 Personal Experiences and Cultural Context13:47 Signs of Enmeshment Trauma19:09 Impact of Enmeshment Trauma25:54 Enmeshment in Faith Communities32:19 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSupport the showSUBSCRIBE | FOLLOW | SUPPORTSocial Media:Follow Ann Yeong on Instagram or Facebook.Newsletter:Subscribe to Begin Again for Ann's updates and reflections.Support the Show:Monthly Support (starting at USD$3)One-time DonationLeave a Review:If this podcast has blessed you, please leave a review by clicking here.
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Healing and Repenting from Abuse of Conscience
Episode 158In this episode, I continue the discussion on spiritual abuse by focusing on Abuse of Conscience. I share my personal journey of discovering this subtle yet pervasive form of abuse, how it affected my life, and my path to recognising my own role in it. I discuss how my own spiritual trauma and distorted image of God fuelled my participation in this form of spiritual abuse and share how experiencing God's unconditional love has been crucial in my healing process both as a survivor and perpetrator of abuse of conscience. Watch this recording on YouTube.Follow me on my Instagram account @animann for more material on the integration journey and subscribe to my monthly reflections on Begin Again.RESOURCESWhat is Abuse of Conscience? (Podcast by Paul Fahey)Abuse of Conscience (Presentation by Paul Fahey, Q&A with Fr Boniface Hicks)Respecting Conscience in Catholicism (Paul Fahey with Amy Grey)Conscience Invaders The Place Where You Stand Is Holy Ground: Recognizing and Preventing Spiritual Abuse in the Catholic Church CHAPTER MARKERS00:00 Introduction01:23 Resources on Abuse of Conscience05:50 The Challenge of Accepting Abuse08:47 Conscience in Catholic Teaching14:01 Freedom and Consent in Moral Actions17:41 About Mortal Sin24:35 Personal Stories of Conscience Abuse32:08 The Impact of Fear on Faith42:13 Healing and Repenting from Abuse of Conscience49:05 Final Thoughts and Invitation to ReflectSupport the showSUBSCRIBE | FOLLOW | SUPPORTSocial Media:Follow Ann Yeong on Instagram or Facebook.Newsletter:Subscribe to Begin Again for Ann's updates and reflections.Support the Show:Monthly Support (starting at USD$3)One-time DonationLeave a Review:If this podcast has blessed you, please leave a review by clicking here.
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Using Power and Influence in Non-Spiritually Abusive Ways
Episode 157In this episode, I build on my last episode’s discussion of how culture, disembodied faith, and trauma contribute to an environment conducive to spiritual abuse. I delve into the responsible use of power and influence, sharing personal insights and experiences. I discuss how, even with good intentions, we can unintentionally harm others by imposing ourselves and violating the sacred freedom of another person’s conscience that even God respects. I offer tips for exercising influence in a non-coercive and respectful manner, emphasising the importance of honouring each person's freedom and dignity. Watch this recording on YouTube.Follow me on my Instagram account @animann for more material on the integration journey and subscribe to my monthly reflections on Begin Again.CHAPTER MARKERS00:00 Introduction05:36 Personal Influence and Power Dynamics09:54 Why So Hard to Recognise Spiritual Abuse20:20 Tips for Respecting Others' Freedom35:14 Conclusion and ReflectionSupport the showSUBSCRIBE | FOLLOW | SUPPORTSocial Media:Follow Ann Yeong on Instagram or Facebook.Newsletter:Subscribe to Begin Again for Ann's updates and reflections.Support the Show:Monthly Support (starting at USD$3)One-time DonationLeave a Review:If this podcast has blessed you, please leave a review by clicking here.
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How Culture, Disembodied Faith and Trauma Facilitate Spiritual Abuse
Episode 156In this episode, I delve into three factors that facilitate spiritual abuse, especially within the experience of many Catholics. Reflecting on a personal experience during a silent retreat, I explore how complex trauma, disembodied faith, and cultural influences create environments where spiritual abuse can easily occur. I share insights on recognising these dynamics and discuss the importance of becoming trauma-informed to foster authentic spiritual maturity and embodied faith. This conversation aims to support individuals on their journey of healing and integration, helping them understand the systemic and personal elements contributing to spiritual abuse.Watch this recording on YouTube.Follow me on my Instagram account @animann for more material on the integration journey and subscribe to my monthly reflections on Begin Again.CHAPTER MARKERS00:00 Introduction06:02 Three Factors in the Set-Up for Spiritual Abuse11:25 Cultural Influences on Spirituality14:20 Silent Retreat Experience25:48 Understanding Spiritual Maturity28:05 The Role of Dreams in Spiritual Direction28:57 Unknowingly Primed for Spiritual Abuse31:30 Complex Trauma and Authority36:25 Disembodied Faith43:21 Recognising and Addressing Spiritual Abuse49:43 Final Reflections and EncouragementSupport the showSUBSCRIBE | FOLLOW | SUPPORTSocial Media:Follow Ann Yeong on Instagram or Facebook.Newsletter:Subscribe to Begin Again for Ann's updates and reflections.Support the Show:Monthly Support (starting at USD$3)One-time DonationLeave a Review:If this podcast has blessed you, please leave a review by clicking here.
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Spiritual Abuse in Evangelisation and Discipleship (with Paul Fahey)
Episode 155In this episode, Paul Fahey joins me in a pivotal conversation about spiritual abuse within the context of evangelisation and church communities. We share our journey from years of traditional evangelisation to a deeper understanding of the Great Commandments and how they relate to the Great Commission. We examine the importance of truly loving others as Christ loves us and how our distorted images of God can impact our relationships and evangelisation efforts. We address the often-overlooked emotional and psychological abuses by those in spiritual authority and discuss what a healthy use of authority should look like. We also delve into the critical role of personal integrity and humility for those in spiritual leadership. This episode offers crucial insights into the ways we can foster a more loving and respectful approach to faith, evangelisation and discipleship.Watch this recording on YouTube.Follow me on my Instagram account @animann for more material on the integration journey and subscribe to my monthly reflections on Begin Again.RESOURCESPaul Fahey's Spiritual Abuse Workshop (Fall 2025)Read Paul's excellent reflection: "One cannot proclaim God in a way contrary to God himself: Spiritual Abuse and Evangelisation"Sherry Weddell’s book Forming Intentional Disciples: The Path to Knowing and Following Jesus Catechesi Tradendae Dignitatis Humanae Pope Francis’ address to the Indigenous Peoples and Members of the Parish Community Sacred Heart CHAPTER MARKERS00:00 Introduction03:29 Spiritual Abuse in Evangelisation05:52 Introducing Paul Fahey09:43 Personal Experiences and Reflections14:18 The Role of Trust in Evangelisation25:29 Coercion in Evangelisation30:48 Subtle Forms of Coercion44:45 Preferential Option for the Institution50:26 Defining the End of Evangelisation53:16 The Importance of Dignity and Freedom55:23 Evangelisation vs. Proselytism56:52 Intellectual Conversion vs. True Discipleship58:15 Lack of Self-Awareness in Evangelisation01:01:25 Corporate and Individual Responsibility01:04:33 Historical Context of Church Authority01:18:35 Healthy Use of Spiritual Authority01:24:07 ESupport the showSUBSCRIBE | FOLLOW | SUPPORTSocial Media:Follow Ann Yeong on Instagram or Facebook.Newsletter:Subscribe to Begin Again for Ann's updates and reflections.Support the Show:Monthly Support (starting at USD$3)One-time DonationLeave a Review:If this podcast has blessed you, please leave a review by clicking here.
Becoming Me is your podcast companion and coach in your journey to a more integrated and authentic self. I explore the joys and challenges of the interior journey and share practical wisdom about growing in wholeness, healing from complex trauma, and navigating the existential crises of spiritual midlife deconstruction and renewal as an integrated Roman Catholic. Visit www.integroformation.com for more!
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