Welcome to the ‘Therapy in the Headlines’ Newsletter created by trauma therapist, coach, and writer, Dr. Laura Anderson!
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Who is Dr. Laura Anderson?
Figuring out who I am has been a journey of curiosity and intention mixed with trial and error. As a former (religious) fundie and purity culture survivor, my personal life has inspired my professional life and is a reflection of my values and passion of helping others. I’m an Elder Millennial or Xennial, an Enneagram 4, and an INFJ. In my fundie days I was often told I was a lot—too much, in fact—and I have come to love my much-ness; it makes me who I am. I’m not for everyone, and that’s ok! I love reading, writing, being outside, my dog, my friends, dancing, and learning! Professionally, I am a trauma therapist & coach, consultant, author, podcaster, founder of the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery, and co-founder of the Religious Trauma Institute.
Why did you start this column?
Most people don’t know, but back before social media was really a ‘thing’, I was into blogging and started a blog that was initially going to focus on being 30 and single but rather accidentally turned into a Bachelor re-cap column with a therapeutic twist. Traumatized, Tired & Disillusioned actually gained some traction and the attention of Bachelor contestants that are still well-known in the franchise. After a couple years, I needed a break but always hoped one day I could come back to it!
Writing has always been the steadfast way I’ve been able to express myself and the only way I could be accurate and honest about my emotions and experiences during my growing up years. While I do a lot of writing professionally, I also wanted a creative outlet that wasn’t focused solely on trauma as well as a place where I could be more vulnerable, share what’s happening in a more personal way, and talk about something I love: reality TV!
Why subscribe?
I give a lot of content away for free on social media—which I am very grateful to be able to do…but because my social media presence is more education-focused, I am careful of what I share about my personal life, relationships, and processing. Having more personal content behind a paywall feels safer as I recognize that those who are willing to pay for a subscription likely hold my story with reverence.
Paid subscribers will get exclusive content on a weekly basis as well as personal essays at least twice/month. I’ll also be reviewing books covering topics like purity culture, fundamentalism, religion, cults, memoirs, and other related topics.
Where else can you find me?
You can find out more about me and the services I offer on my website: www.drlauraeanderson.com. While I am not currently taking on new coaching clients, I have assembled an amazing team of trauma-trained coaches at the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery who provide online support to people all over the world that are coming out of high control religion, fundamentalism, purity culture, cults, and/or have experienced religious trauma and Adverse Religious Experiences.
I am the host of the Wise Jezebels podcast. I also co-host the Sunday School Dropouts podcast—a podcast produced by the Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery, focusing on healing from religious trauma, featuring interviews with professionals and individuals with lived experiences.
You can find me on social media across all platforms: @drlauraeanderson
And, I wrote a book! When Religion Hurts You: Healing from Religious Trauma and the Impact of High Control Religion is available wherever you buy books and is also available on Audible!
