Today I sit down with Dr. Ryan Lee to discuss religious recovery for former members of high control religious groups such as Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormonism, among others.

While the doctrines of high control religions (often referred to as “cults”) may vary, the underlying dynamics of these groups are often very similar. They usually demand absolute obedience, exerting high levels of control over the thoughts and actions of their members, penalizing doubt or independent thought, and often employ harsh excommunication tactics towards those who decide to leave.

​As a former Jehovah’s Witness, Dr. Lee has first-hand experience of the impact these organizations can have on one’s well-being, and the challenges of those who are courageous enough to walk away. In addition to grieving the loss of community and family, former members face questions related to purpose and reintegration with the outside, and are often flooded with feelings of anger, sadness, regret and confusion.