This article is an electronic version of an article originally published in Cultic Studies Journal, 1988, Volume 5, Number 2, pages 193-210. Please keep in mind that the pagination of this electronic reprint differs from that of the bound volume. This fact could affect how you enter bibliographic information in papers that you may write.

 

Psychotherapy With Ex-Cultists: Four Case Studies and Commentary
 

Lorna Goldberg, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.

William Goldberg, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.

Abstract

Psychotherapy of ex-cult members presents special problems for mental health professionals. Although most cultists appear to be within the normal range psychologically, many of those who seek psychotherapy after leaving a cult have histories of psychopathology that antedate the cult experience. Mental health professionals who work with these individuals should be sensitive to the impact powerful cult environments can have on presenting symptomatology and on the course of therapy. Presenting symptomatology is often exacerbated by factors within the cult experience. Therapeutic success requires an examination of the cult experience so as to integrate it into clients' understanding of themselves. Themes and issues commonly observed in many cult members prior to, during, and after cult involvement are examined in four sample cases.

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