Reclaiming Freedom and Self-Trust After Religious Trauma

Elise Heerde’s journey to becoming a Certified Coach in Religious Trauma and Cult Recovery began with her own lived experience.

Having spent decades in high-control religious systems, Elise faced the profound impact of fear, shame, and coercion on her identity and relationships.

Through her personal recovery, she discovered a gap in trauma-informed support for survivors.

She was inspired to create a safe, validating, and empowering space for others navigating similar experiences.

Elise’s work blends psychoeducation, nervous-system regulation, parts-work, and narrative coaching.

She guides clients to release shame, understand their experiences, and rebuild their sense of self outside of dogma or coercion.

Her coaching is a lifeline for those seeking to reclaim their voice, agency, and capacity for safe, authentic relationships both with themselves and with others.

Restoring Autonomy and Connection

As the founder of her coaching practice, Elise helps survivors of religious trauma and high-control groups reconnect with their inner authority and self-trust.

Through one-on-one coaching and practical recovery resources, she guides clients to navigate the complexities of their trauma, rediscover their identity, and step into freedom on their own terms.

Elise’s work is a reminder that recovery is not about fixing faith.

It is about reclaiming the right to think, feel, and belong authentically without fear or shame.

Her approach creates transformation through understanding, validation, and practical tools.

This enables clients to rebuild lives of connection, clarity, and personal empowerment.

Overcoming Challenges While Growing Her Practice

Building a business in the field of religious trauma recovery comes with unique challenges.

For Elise, speaking publicly about her experiences meant risking judgment and facing subtle backlash from former communities and friends.

That vulnerability became the heart of her work.

Sharing her story and helping clients say, “I thought I was the only one,” became a powerful act of reclamation and healing.

Today, Elise’s biggest challenge is balancing business growth with sustainability.

Religious trauma recovery work is deeply intensive.

She strives to expand access to trauma-informed support without sacrificing the integrity, ethics, and personal connection her clients value most.

Empowering Survivors to Reclaim Their Lives

Elise’s mission is clear.

She supports survivors in reclaiming autonomy, self-trust, and authentic connection.

Through coaching, practical resources, and compassionate guidance, she helps individuals release shame, understand their experiences, and rebuild a sense of identity outside of coercive control.

Her work is a beacon for those seeking freedom from the lasting effects of religious trauma and high-control systems.

Step into Freedom and Self-Trust

At Reignelle, we believe in the transformative power of healing and reclaiming your life.

Elise’s journey reminds us that even after enduring fear, shame, and coercion, it is possible to reclaim agency, trust yourself, and build authentic, meaningful connections.

If you are ready to heal from religious trauma and embrace your freedom, Elise’s guidance could be the key to stepping fully into your life with confidence and self-trust.

Connect With Elise Heerde:

Email: elisecheerde@gmail.com

Instagram: eliseheerde