Welcome to Journey Free / Supported Recovery from Religious Trauma.

Leaving a harmful or controlling religion can affect your sense of self, safety, and belonging in ways that are often misunderstood. We offer trauma-informed, compassionate support for people recovering from religious trauma and rebuilding life on their own terms.

A Place for Healing, Clarity, and Reclaiming Your Life

You may have a lot of questions. You may be carrying anger, grief, confusion, or a sense that you’ve lost your footing. When the beliefs, community, and sources of guidance you once relied on no longer fit who you are, it can be hard to know where to turn.

At Journey Free, we understand what you’re going through. We offer a safe and supportive place for people recovering from harmful religious experiences to find understanding, connection, and a way forward.

Founded by psychologist and author Dr. Marlene Winell, Journey Free has spent more than 20 years helping people understand religious trauma and supporting individuals, groups, and professionals through trauma-informed coaching, community support, and education.

About Journey Free

Ways to Get Support

Online Support Group

Facilitated online groups that provide understanding, connection, and shared language for people navigating the impact of religious trauma.

Explore Support Groups

Religious Trauma Recovery Coaching

One-on-one coaching for individuals seeking personalized guidance as they work through religious trauma and rebuild identity, confidence, and direction.

Learn About Membership

Professional Development

Professional development for therapists, coaches, and helping professionals seeking practical tools and deeper understanding for supporting individuals recovering from religious trauma.

Professional Development

Ongoing Support Through Membership

Journey Free membership offers a steady, supportive space for people recovering from religious trauma. You will find understanding peers and be able to share about your lives beyond religion. We focus our attention on speaking your truth and then, with support, rebuilding your lives after leaving religion. 

Members are invited to participate in 3 live online support calls per month, and a private members-only forum. These are moderated by experienced facilitators who understand the complexities of religious trauma. Membership is designed to be accessible, flexible, and grounded in respect for each person’s pace and process.

Explore Membership

What Is Religious Trauma Syndrome?

Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS) describes the emotional, psychological, and social impacts that can result from exposure to authoritarian, controlling, or fear-based religious systems.

In addition to trauma experienced while part of a religious community, RTS is a framework to understand the specific challenges of leaving a religion and creating a fulfilling life in society. 

RTS can affect identity, relationships, self-trust, emotional regulation, and a person’s sense of meaning or safety in the world. Because these effects are often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, many people struggle to find language for what they’re experiencing.

 Here at Journey Free, our work is grounded in the RTS framework to provide clarity, validation and a trauma-informed path forward to heal in community.

What People Say About Journey Free

Marlene is an expert in helping people to recover from the harmful effects of fundamentalist religion. In addition, she provides excellent advice and guidance in handling family relationships. Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Expert.

Heina Dadabhoy

Writer and Tutor

Orange County, CA

October 13, 2011

Marlene is an outstanding professional. She speaks and writes with clarity and sensitivity. Marlene is one of the most prolific thinkers of our time.

Lori Sims

Director of Development at Colorado State University

Fort Collins, CO

May 8, 2012

Marlene is passionate about emotional health, specifically recovery from harmful fundamentalist religions. Count on her to be non-judgmental and compassionate.

Anne Devries

Client

Marlene has such a loving presence and approach. She is so wise, insightful, and fun.

Tyson

Client

The best part of being in the group was I felt like I had people who were ready at a moments notice to listen, understand, and support me. I also felt empowered by the fact that I could be an encouragement to them, and it felt really good to find ways to respond to others in the group.

Carol

Client