Our conversation with Wendy Montgomery on her efforts to make the LDS church safe for LGBTQ people and her eventual decision to leave.

On this episode of the Unburdened podcast, we sat down with Wendy Montgomery, a certified life coach and Enneagram educator. As a mother of five children, four of whom identify as LGBTQIA+, Wendy co-founded Mama Dragons and has served on the board of directors for both Mama Dragons and Affirmation, the largest international Mormon LGBTQIA+ organization.

After her son's coming out, Wendy's faith is tested as she confronts the Mormon Church's doctrines that clash with her unconditional love for her children. She grapples with emotional struggles, engages in activism with groups like Mama Dragons and Affirmation, and considers the broader impact of church policies on LGBTQ+ individuals.

The courage to question, the strength to protect, and the love that knows no bounds— Wendy's advocacy and allyship is a profound lesson in parental love and the courage to stand up for one's beliefs amidst adversity.

We discussed:

• Wendy's journey of faith deconstruction and her evolution towards a more personalized belief system.

• Effects of Mormon Church doctrines on LGBTQ+ individuals and their families, including mental health challenges and social stigmas

• The aftermath of the Supreme Court's marriage equality decision

• Subsequent Mormon church policy targeting LGBTQIA+ members and their children.

• The increase in suicide rates among LGBTQIA+ youth regarding church's policy.

• Establishing healthy boundaries and finding strength in their experiences.

• Use of the Enneagram as a tool for self-discovery and personal growth.

To learn more about Wendy Montgomery:

Website: https://www.wendymontgomery.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendymontcoach/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Wendy-Montgomery-Coaching/100084535879114/

Learn more about the Unburdened podcast:

Instagram: @theunburdenedpodcast

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Unburdened

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our conversation with IFS lead trainer Sue Richmond.

On this edition of the Unburdened podcast, we have Sue Richmond is a well-known therapist and one of the primary instructors of the Internal Family Systems Model. Sue does both private psychotherapy and IFS consultancy in Connecticut. She applies the IFS concept to both individuals and groups, using a kind and heart-centered approach.

Sue's journey is not just her story—it's an exploration of the internal struggle many face when their personal truths clash with religious doctrine, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. Her powerful narrative of a troubled childhood, marked by a parent's PTSD and alcoholism, unfolds to reveal a woman who found strength and solace in her unwavering faith.

We discussed:

• Pursuing social work over holy orders, focusing on helping marginalized communities.

• The struggle to find a faith community that accepts LGBTQ+ individuals.

• Psychotherapy and spirituality’s role in addressing faith, sexuality, and identity.

• Understanding one's 'parts' to achieve psychological wholeness.

• Holistic therapeutic approach that integrates spirituality and emotion for authentic self-connection.

• Development and application of IFS therapy as a transformative tool for healing.

To learn more about Sue Richmond:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-richmond-668074154/

Learn more about the Unburdened podcast:

Instagram: @theunburdenedpodcast

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Unburdened

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our conversation with EMDR therapist Erin Evanson-Lass

In another profound episode of the Unburdened podcast, we are privileged to have a chat with Erin Evanson-Lass, an LCSW, EMDR Certified Therapist and Approved Consultant with EMDRIA, a Maiberger Institute Certified EMDR Therapist, Consultant and Training Facilitator, and the owner of Waypoints Counseling - a small group practice of dedicated therapists trained in EMDR and support staff noted for its focus on treating trauma.

Erin discusses the complex journey of healing from spiritual trauma, shedding light on the transformative power of EMDR therapy. She shares her insights on navigating the aftermath of high-control group influence, underscoring the challenges of finding autonomy and the human need for belonging.

We discussed:

• The need for therapists to recognize and address spiritual trauma.

• Use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) as a transformative therapy method.

• Complexities of helping clients who are awakening to the existence of their trauma, particularly those coming from high-control group dynamics.

• Need for belonging and control, highlighting the risks and difficulties individuals face when leaving high-control groups.

• Damaging effects of spiritual abuse and purity culture, using Jennifer Knapp’s experiences as an example.

• Journey of healing and the courage required to reshape a new faith identity.

To learn more about Erin Evanson-Lass:

Website: waypointscounselingpllc.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/erin-evanson-lass-lcsw-0b834b8

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.