Books on Healing from Religion

Take Back Your Life by Jana Lalich is a practical guide for those recovering from controlling groups or relationships, offering tools to rebuild autonomy, confidence, and trust in one’s own judgment. With clear explanations and supportive exercises, it helps readers understand the dynamics of manipulation while moving toward healing and self-empowerment.

What Happened to You? by Dr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey explores how trauma, especially in childhood, shapes the brain, body, and behavior throughout life. Through a conversational style, it explains the science of the nervous system, the impact of stress and adversity on development, and the power of reframing questions from “What’s wrong with you?”to “What happened to you?” The book emphasizes that healing is possible through safe, consistent relationships, regulation, and compassionate understanding of how past experiences continue to influence the present.

Doctor Winell offers guidance for individuals leaving fundamentalist or controlling religious communities. She addresses the emotional and psychological challenges of this transition. Through personal stories and practical exercises, it helps readers reclaim autonomy, heal from spiritual trauma, and build a fulfilling life beyond religion.