Therapy for Purity Culture Recovery in Portland, Oregon
At Kindred Holistic Therapy, we understand the lasting impact that purity culture can have on one's emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. For those who have also experienced religious trauma or spiritual abuse, purity culture is often a contributor to the depth of pain and hurt.
We provide a nonjudgmental space where you are equipped to explore your lived experiences within purity culture. We also empower clients to engage with emotions and embark on a journey of self-discovery, self-compassion, and bridging the connection between the mind, body, and soul.
What Is Purity Culture?
While purity culture is a deep and complex topic, we’ll attempt to concisely describe it. Purity culture is a set of beliefs and norms often rooted in religious or societal teachings, which emphasize sexual abstinence before marriage, rigid gender roles, and a focus on sexual purity—while avoiding proper education about sex, consent, and other important topics.
Beliefs that stem from the heart of Purity Culture often lead to intense feelings of shame, guilt, anxiety, and confusion surrounding one's identity, sexuality, body, and even relationships with romantic partners, past and present. Additionally, those who prescribe to the teachings of Purity Culture also believe that humans are inherently flawed, dirty, and sinful.
The Lasting Effects of Purity Culture—Common Symptoms
It’s important to note that the following is a general list that provides insight into the harm caused by purity culture’s teaching—both psychological and physical.
Psychological Impacts:
Chronic Feelings of Shame and Guilt: Purity culture often instills a sense of shame and guilt around sexual thoughts, desires, and actions, which can persist into adulthood.
Ongoing Anxiety and Depression: The constant fear of failing to meet purity standards can contribute to anxiety and depression, as individuals may feel overwhelmed and inadequate.
Low Self-Esteem and Self-Worth: Purity culture can erode self-esteem by emphasizing external factors like virginity as a measure of worth, rather than intrinsic qualities.
Rigid Self-Repression: Purity culture can lead to the repression or suppression of natural sexual desires and emotions, which can hinder healthy sexual development.
A Fear of Intimacy and Commitment: Fear of intimacy or emotional closeness may develop as individuals struggle with vulnerability in relationships.
Body Image Issues and/or disordered eating: The focus on physical purity can contribute to distorted body image perceptions and eating disorders.
Physical Impacts:
Delayed Sexual Development: Purity culture can delay the exploration and understanding of one's own sexuality and sexual development.
Inadequate Sex Education: Individuals raised in purity culture may lack comprehensive sex education, which can lead to misinformation and risky sexual behavior.
Sexual Repression or dysfunction: Some individuals may experience physical discomfort or difficulty with sexual activity due to the repression of sexual desires.
Health Risks: Lack of access to proper sexual health information may result in increased risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies.
Impact on Reproductive Health: Limited knowledge of contraceptive methods can lead to difficulties in making informed choices about reproductive health.
How We Support Clients Seeking Recovery from Purity Culture
A therapist offering support to individuals healing from the effects of purity culture provides a safe and empathetic space where clients can openly explore their experiences and emotions.
Through compassionate listening and nonjudgmental guidance, the therapist helps clients unpack the shame, guilt, and anxiety that purity culture may have instilled. They work collaboratively to identify and challenge deeply ingrained beliefs, fostering a sense of self-worth and self-acceptance. Therapists assist clients in developing healthy coping strategies, addressing trauma if present, and building resilience. Additionally, they empower clients to rediscover their authentic selves, reframe their understanding of sexuality, and navigate intimate relationships with confidence and consent.
Ultimately, the role of a therapist is to support individuals in their unique experience of healing and embracing a more liberated and fulfilling life beyond the constraints of purity culture.
Work with an Oregon Therapist with Knowledge about Purity Culture
Healing from the effects of purity culture is a courageous journey, and you don't have to go through it alone. We are committed to supporting you as you regain your sense of self-worth, embrace your innate goodness and sexuality, and build healthier, more authentic relationships.
Take the first step towards healing today by reaching out to schedule an appointment. Your journey to reclaiming your authentic self can start today. If this sounds like something you want to pursue, reach out today through an inquiry form or by scheduling a consultation right here.