Back from the Abyss: Psychiatry in Stories | Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, and Psychedelics Healing the Wounds of Sexual and Spiritual Abuse
Aug 27, 2023
Shelly Winemiller, a trauma therapist and survivor of clergy sexual abuse, shares her powerful story of reclaiming her body and spirit. Topics include the struggles of growing up in a small city and experiencing sexual abuse, the journey of therapy from medication to healing, sharing with the church, healing from spiritual trauma and abuse, a surprising outing to combat nightmares, healing through breaking and singing, and the power of love and connection in healing from abuse.
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Postpartum and Therapy
- Shelly remained in denial, focusing on raising her children.
- After her third child, she experienced severe postpartum depression, marking the start of her healing journey.
Finding Therapy
- Shelly's healing began with medication for depression and psychosis after a postpartum episode.
- A panic attack after her aunt's funeral led her to seek therapy at age 36.
The Green Room Memory
- Months into therapy, Shelly had recurring dreams of a green room and a headless priest.
- A call with her sister confirmed the green room's existence, triggering a flood of memories and physical reactions.