Healing Religious Trauma and Embracing Sexual Empowerment with Ann Russo

In this episode of the Spiritually Curious Therapist podcast, I welcomes Ann Russo, a therapist and thought leader specializing in healing religious trauma, sexual empowerment, ethical non-monogamy, and queer identity. Anne shares her unique journey from growing up in a non-traditional household to becoming an advocate and healer. We discuss the importance of understanding and integrating spirituality into therapeutic practices, navigating high control religious environments, and facilitating sexual empowerment. Anne also introduces her upcoming book and the Religious Trauma Treatment Model (RTTM), emphasizing the significance of identity reconstruction, self-trust, and emotional regulation. The conversation delves into how therapists can provide culturally competent care, address biases, and uphold ethical standards while working with marginalized communities. Anne offers insights into the concept of 'enthusiastic consent' and the complexities involved in ethical non-monogamy. The episode highlights the need for holistic approaches in mental health that consider the spiritual and religious backgrounds of clients.00:00 Introduction to the Spiritually Curious Therapist Podcast01:01 Meet Anne Russo: Advocate and Thought Leader02:29 Anne's Unique Upbringing and Early Experiences03:57 Exploring Religion and Sexual Orientation04:53 Academic Pursuits and Spiritual Awakening11:08 Integrating Spirituality into Therapy14:25 Navigating Religion and Spirituality in Therapy16:49 Judaism and Personal Spiritual Practices21:33 The Religious Trauma Treatment Model22:39 Discovering a New Treatment Model23:07 Identity Reconstruction and Emotional Regulation24:00 Addressing Religious Trauma24:41 The Importance of Intake Questions25:36 High Control Religious Environments26:36 Integration vs. Moving Away27:30 Sexual Empowerment and Religious Beliefs31:04 Ethical Non-Monogamy33:24 Enthusiastic Consent37:06 Building Self-Worth and Personal Insight39:23 Conclusion and ResourcesYou can find Ann Russo at the following links:http://www.annrusso.orghttps://www.amrtherapy.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/annrussolcsw/ https://www.youtube.com/@annrussolcsw The course referenced in the podcast can be found at  https://coursesempower.annrusso.org/Share what resonated for youThank you for listening to the Spiritually Curious Therapist Podcast.  If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share, and leave a review - it helps us grow and reach more listeners!Until next time.  Stay Curious.You can find Jodi Silverman, LCSW atwww.therachihealing.comwww.journeywithkindredsouls.comFollow me on Socials:TikTok @spiritcurioustherapistInstagram @therachihealingFacebook @TheraChi HealingStay up to date on our offerings by joining our newsletter hereAre you interested in learning more about Reiki Assisted Psychotherapy?Join our facebook group atwww.facebook.com/groups/psychotherapeuticreikiforcliniciansAre you a mental health professional with a spiritual edge and have something to share?  Complete this form to apply to be on the podcast