When Devotion Turns Toxic: Recognizing the Line Between Religion and Control

We are taught to respect all religions. But as clinicians, what do we do when a client belongs to a group that seems manipulative, controlling, or toxic?

In recent discussions with colleagues, we wrestled with the definition of a "charismatic group" versus a "cult."

The Red Flags

I have a friend whose church involvement ticks many of the boxes we worry about:

• Excessive Devotion: She is there 6 days a week, from 8am to 8pm.

• Isolation: She doesn't spend time with family (even on holidays) because they don't share her beliefs.

• Financial Exploitation: She donates massive amounts of money, even when she cannot afford it.

To me, looking from the outside, this looks toxic. But she views it as a "purge" of things that no longer serve her. She doesn't see it as a problem.

The Clinical Stance

This puts the therapist in a difficult position. If the client doesn't view their involvement as a problem, we cannot force them to leave. We can't simply say, "You're in a cult."

Instead, our role is to provide support and psychoeducation. We create a safe space so that if, or when, they begin to question their experience, they have a non-judgmental place to land.

Growing up in a conservative Christian home, I was taught that every other religion was "bad." Moving past that mindset has been a journey of finding the beauty in other traditions (like the Sikh emphasis on equality) while remaining vigilant about the dynamics of control.