Episode Summary
Tasha's journey is a powerful testament to the complexity of faith, mental health, and her NeuroQueer identity. Growing up without a religious background, she faced an eating disorder as a teenager and experienced a psychiatric breakdown in her early 30s. This lead her to a Pentecostal-run safe house. Here, the clear structure and binary rules provided a sense of comfort amidst her vulnerability.
However, her time there was multifaceted, involving intense indoctrination and practices like exorcisms, which left lasting trauma. The facility's cult-like dynamics and the harmful teachings about 'casting out demons' exacerbated her struggles. Deemed a lost cause and drifting from church to church, Tasha wrestled with her beliefs, especially the connection drawn between her perceived 'evil' and her sexuality. Leaving the church brought heartache but also a journey toward peace as she explored her gender and sexuality, moving from rebellion to acceptance.
Despite the confusion of encountering Queer people of faith and ongoing transphobic abuse, Tasha now finds joy and peace in new ways. She shares her story to support others in their deconstruction, offering insights and hope for those just beginning their journeys.
More About Tasha
Tasha is a Queer Neurodivergent (NeuroQueer) Counsellor, Advocate, wife, and chronic pain battler. Many of her clients are neurodivergent, mainly autism and/or ADHD and are part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Tasha uses her lived experience to work with these individuals to connect on a deeper level as someone who understands many of the struggles and triumphs faced.
Connect With Us
To listen to the other episode I did with Tasha – Beyond The Binary
To connect with Sam on Instagram - @anchoredcounsellingservices
Want to contact with Sam about the podcast or therapy? Use this contact form.
