Supporting ExMuslims to overcome religious trauma and honour based abuse

I worked closely with my therapist to process and make sense of my past experiences

As a former Muslim from Northern Nigeria, I sought therapy to address the impacts of childhood trauma, which had led to PTSD. Specifically, I wanted to gain a deeper understanding of how my past experiences had affected my current emotional state and learn effective coping mechanisms to manage my symptoms.

I worked closely with my therapist to process and make sense of my past experiences, with a focus on the symptoms of PTSD that were impacting my daily life. Together, we identified coping mechanisms that worked for me and helped me feel more equipped to manage my symptoms. My therapist provided a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where I could openly discuss my trauma, which allowed me to make significant progress in my healing journey.

From Nigeria

I had no idea how to overcome the overwhelming shame and guilt I felt for disappointing my family due to my disbelief.

I was able to overcome many of my fears and develop a stronger sense of self.

Living in Egypt as an atheist was a constant source of fear for me, and I often worried about being hurt or abused by others. Despite these fears, I remained committed to working through my trauma and finding ways to live a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Overall, my therapy sessions were incredibly helpful and had a significant positive impact on my life. Thanks to the support and assistance of my therapist & Faithless Hijabi, I was able to overcome many of my fears and develop a stronger sense of self. I am deeply grateful for their help in managing my anxiety and allowing me to live a more fulfilling life.

From Egypt

It was a lifeline that empowered me to embrace my true self, offering hope and understanding to closeted Ex-Muslims like me.

I want to express my gratitude for the support I’ve received.

I want to express my gratitude for the support I’ve received. I’ve been making significant progress, and I’m experiencing fewer feelings of paranoia. However, I’ve been confronted by the challenges of dealing with PTSD, depression, and anxiety, particularly when opening up about past traumas. I’ve had to confront some toxic people-pleasing behaviors that stem from my upbringing in a highly oppressive and submissive environment. I’m hopeful that these challenges will improve with time.

This journey hasn’t been easy, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to confront the pain in the hopes of achieving personal growth and improvement.

Navigating feelings of loneliness while trying to connect with people and friends who haven’t experienced or fully understood my struggles, and sometimes even mistreated me, has been a difficult journey. Trying to find a sense of belonging in such circumstances has been a challenge, but I believe that you and your team have a deep understanding of these difficulties.

I want to specifically acknowledge Emily, who has been a tremendous help to me. I’m genuinely thankful for the insights she has provided, helping me better understand myself. This journey hasn’t been easy, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to confront the pain in the hopes of achieving personal growth and improvement.

From UK

Just having a space to state out clearly what I have been pilling up for a long time feels so amazing.

Just having a space to state out clearly what I have been pilling up for a long time feels so amazing. And at therapy better, I have that space to express and have someone willing to patiently listen to me. I end my therapy feeling lighter everytime. I feel more focus after every session. I am glad am going through this amazing experience and I am looking forward to a better me with therapy better.

From Saudi Arabia, now UK

I’ve made significant strides in improving my life, including my job and relationships

I began therapy when I was at my lowest point, grappling with incessant suicidal thoughts that seemed more appealing than seeking help. However, since commencing therapy, I’ve made significant strides in improving my life, including my job and relationships. It’s been a transformative journey, and I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to you, Doctor, for your exceptional listening skills and your genuine kindness as a human being. I will always keep you in my thoughts as you continue to pursue your goals, for you have been the guiding voice on my path to personal betterment.

From Tanzania

I’m incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to build resilience and work towards a brighter future.

I have suffered from what I thought I could never heal from, or even let go. I was in a constant state of fear that my family would one day end up killing me after the years of abuse. First, it was for being found out that I removed the hijab when I was out with my friends, and then it constantly went on. I was under surveillance, and even when I questioned why God would punish women with imposing such restrictions, it was blasphemous. I wasn’t sure if I would even get the space to freely talk to my therapist, and had to pretend to go to bed early so I could do my sessions. I’m incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to build resilience and work towards a brighter future.

From Egypt