Episode 349: How Spiritual Abuse Affects Your Nervous System and Faith with Colleen Ramser

Did you know that spiritual trauma can live in your body just like any other kind of trauma, showing up as intrusive thoughts, a racing heart during worship, or an inability to even open your Bible? In this episode, host Erin Kerry sits down with EMDR-certified trauma therapist and author Colleen Ramser to explore the difference between spiritual abuse and spiritual trauma, why scripture can sometimes feel triggering instead of comforting, and how the nervous system (not just willpower or "more faith”) holds the key to healing. Together, they discuss spiritual cynicism, guarded parts, somatic approaches to trauma recovery, and what it looks like for pastors and ministry leaders to navigate spiritual abuse within their own churches. You'll also learn practical ways to discern healthy theology from twisted relational theology, why slow and small steps matter more than forcing yourself back into old spiritual practices, and how healing in the body can open the door to reconnecting with God. Whether you've experienced spiritual abuse directly, walked away from church hurt, or simply want to understand the connection between trauma and faith, this conversation offers both compassion and a clear path forward. Key Topics: * Spiritual abuse vs. spiritual trauma and how to tell the difference * Why scripture and prayer can feel triggering after trauma * The nervous system's role in spiritual healing * Somatic and body-based approaches to trauma recovery (EMDR, IFS) * Spiritual cynicism as a trauma response * Guarded parts, discernment, and rebuilding trust * Ministry leaders and pastors who experience spiritual abuse * Discerning healthy theology vs. twisted relational theology * Domestic abuse parallels in spiritually abusive systems * Faith, delight, and play as part of wholeness Links Mentioned:
Book: The Shattered Soul: Restoring Wholeness and Rebuilding Your Faith After Spiritual Trauma
Website: colleenramser.com Join Erin's monthly mailing list to get health tips and fresh meal plans and recipes every month: https://mailchi.mp/adde1b3a4af3/monthlysparksignup Order Erin's new book, Live Beyond Your Label, at erinbkerry.com/upcomingbook/