Sounds Like A Cult The Cult of Mormon Therapists
Dec 16, 2025
Join John Dehlin, founder of the Mormon Stories podcast and expert in religious mental health, as he delves into the troubling world of Mormon therapy. He discusses how normal teenage behaviors are pathologized and linked to sexual shame, revealing the detrimental impact of church-approved therapists. John explores the secrecy surrounding Mormon sexual culture, the harmful teachings that suppress female desire, and the consequences for LGBTQ members. Listeners will also hear about the rise of unethical practices and the need for ethical mental health care in this unique context.
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Faith Undermined By Hidden History
- John Dehlin left Mormonism after discovering hidden church history that conflicted with his faith.
- That historical discovery sparked his career combining mental health and religious critique.
Sexual Secrecy Breeds Generational Dysfunction
- John links Mormonism's secretive sexual history to widespread sexual dysfunction across generations.
- He argues that secrecy and polygamy's legacy created traumatic patterns still affecting members.
Bishop Referrals Shape Therapy Choices
- Bishops historically steer congregants to a list of church-approved therapists who prioritize doctrine over ethics.
- This referral pipeline normalizes therapy that privileges church morality above scientific standards.
