About this episode

The episode discusses the impact of spiritual trauma and how to begin healing from it.

What happens when the very things that are meant to draw you closer to God become sources of fear, anxiety, or pain? Spiritual trauma is more than disappointment with church or difficult experiences with Christians. It happens when faith becomes intertwined with trauma, leaving your nervous system physically reacting to prayer, Scripture, worship, or church as though they are unsafe. In this compassionate conversation, Dr. Carol welcomes trauma therapist Colleen Ramser to unpack what spiritual trauma really is, why it affects both body and soul, and why simplistic advice like "just pray more" often deepens the wounds instead of bringing healing. Together they explore how healing begins by honoring your body's responses, giving voice to the silence and anger that often follow trauma, and finding safe relationships where trust can slowly be rebuilt. You'll discover why anger isn't the enemy, how secure attachment with God can be restored, and how Jesus can be found again beneath the debris left by painful experiences. If you've been hurt by church, spiritual leaders, or faith communities—or if you love someone who has—this conversation offers both practical wisdom and genuine hope…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Carol Peters-Tanksley

Guest: Colleen Ramser

Topics covered

• spiritual trauma
• church hurt
• faith and anxiety
• healing
• trust in relationships
• attachment with God

Keywords

• spiritual trauma
• church hurt
• faith
• healing
• anxiety
• trust
• Colleen Ramser

Mentioned in this episode

Products: The Shattered Soul: Restoring Wholeness and Rebuilding Your Faith After Spiritual Trauma

More episodes of Relationship Prescriptions with Dr. Carol

• Belonging Without Compromise: A Journey of Faith and Same-Sex Attraction · July 14, 2026 · 45 min
• Training vs. Trying: Why Willpower Isn't Enough · July 7, 2026 · 51 min
• The Rise of Artificial "Intimacy": Why Human Connection Still Matters · June 30, 2026 · 53 min
• From Brokeness to Healing: Restoring Your Marriage After Betrayal · June 23, 2026 · 51 min
• How to Build a Blended Family That Works · June 16, 2026 · 45 min
• What No One Tells You About Marriage and Staying in Love · June 9, 2026 · 44 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Relationship Prescriptions with Dr. Carol podcast page.