Our stories around sex, shame, and the church

And before we dive deeper into the topic of sex in the therapy process, I want to offer a heads-up and apologies in advance - puns are very easy to come by when talking about the topic of sex (puns intended). I use humor when talking about sex not to make light of or to dismiss the topic, but ultimately to help your system feel more comfortable and normal about talking about a ‘serious taboo’. One of my many hopes with the therapy process is to help you find a lightness and levity to any heavy stories your parts are holding, including the story of sex in your life, and sometimes that can include jokes and laughter.

religious trauma therapySharon YuOctober 17, 2026grace-chan

Trauma, (Harmful) Theology, and Healing

My clients often work with me for reasons related to their Christian faith, describing a continued stuckness after reading many Christian books in which authors propose changes or transformations that seem simple but don’t match the challenges of lived experience. Where I received my master's degree training and education - Fuller Theological Seminary - gives them hope that I can help work through this mystery.

religious trauma therapySharon YuAugust 22, 2026grace-chan

Religious decolonization instead of religious deconstruction

Religious deconstruction movement, particularly in the American context, has largely been shaped and pioneered by white voices. When many people read the stories and memoirs that describe these deconstruction journeys, a common thread emerges: the decision to choose individual freedom over remaining in community. For the BIPOC community, the faith community is often deeply intertwined with culture and family. Walking away doesn’t simply mean leaving a belief system; it can mean risking connection, heritage, and the social fabric that has shaped one’s life.

religious trauma therapySharon YuMarch 7, 2026grace-chan

What is Religious Trauma and What are the Signs?

Religious trauma, much like experiencing physical and sexual abuse or a severe accident can produce the same effects. Feelings of isolation, shame, guilt, anger, and dissociation are common. Direct and indirect messages from beliefs, religious leaders, and the spiritual community can become rigid, shaming, and fear-mongering. So it makes sense to find yourself desperate for control to make yourself "good" and avoid punishment.

religious trauma therapySharon YuApril 19, 2025sharon-yu

Parts Work in Faith Deconstruction

As we grow and move through different seasons, it's natural for our interests, values, and goals to shift. A common shift not often addressed is a shift, change, or deconstruction in faith. Deconstructing your faith and belief system can be confusing, jarring, and emotional. You formerly held a clear framework for how to make sense and meaning of most things - yourself, your relationships, your purpose in life, and the world around you.

ifs therapy, religious trauma therapySharon YuApril 14, 2023

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Our thoughts on love, grief, culture, identities, mental health, and psychotherapy.