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Let’s Get Real with Stephen Jones

How Former Pastor, Jennifer Roach Survived Abuse and Became an LDS Abuse Expert | E0015

Dec 13, 2023
Jennifer Roach, a licensed mental health therapist and senior research associate focused on trauma in religious communities, shares her powerful journey from a pastor to a therapist. She discusses her personal experiences of abuse and the challenges of overcoming trauma. The conversation highlights the complexities of faith and accountability in addressing abuse, the inadequacies of safety measures in religious settings, and the vital role of community support in preventing child abuse. Roach's insights offer a poignant guide for resilience and healing.
01:21:29

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Jennifer Roach highlights the devastating impact of secrecy surrounding abuse, emphasizing the psychological distress it can cause individuals.
  • The complex process of disclosing abuse often involves gradual communication and emotional turmoil, demonstrating the need for sensitive support.

Deep dives

The Impact of Secrets

Secrets can have a devastating effect on individuals, often leading to profound psychological distress. The speaker recounts her personal experience of abuse which was compounded by the secrecy surrounding it, likening her internal struggle to the themes explored in Shakespeare's Macbeth. The burden of carrying such a secret not only affected her mental health but also her interpersonal relationships. Eventually, this realization prompted her to begin disclosing her trauma, reflecting the necessity of breaking such silence for recovery.

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