3 Ways Religious Trauma Shows Up in Black Women’s Lives

By Leonica Riley Erwin, LMSW | The Social Work Concierge, LLC

Religious faith has long been a source of strength, resilience, and community in Black culture. But for some Black women, faith-based environments have also caused deep wounds — especially when religion has been used to control, shame, or silence. This lasting emotional and psychological harm is often called religious trauma.

While religious trauma can affect anyone, Black women may experience it in unique ways due to the intersection of race, gender, and cultural expectations. Here are three common patterns to watch for:

Guilt and Shame Around Identity

Many Black women are raised in faith communities with rigid expectations around gender roles, sexuality, and personal expression. When these beliefs conflict with personal truth, they can cause intense guilt and shame — often leading to self-silencing or hiding important parts of identity.

Difficulty Setting Boundaries

In some religious spaces, obedience and self-sacrifice are praised, especially for women. This can make it hard to say “no,” even in unhealthy relationships or situations. Over time, this can contribute to burnout, resentment, and a lack of self-trust.

Fear of Questioning Beliefs

For many, asking hard questions about doctrine or leadership is seen as a lack of faith. Black women who challenge harmful practices or speak up about injustice in religious spaces may be shamed, excluded, or accused of being “rebellious.” This can create a deep fear of voicing concerns in any setting, not just spiritual ones.

Healing from Religious Trauma

Religious trauma healing is not about abandoning faith unless that’s your choice — it’s about reclaiming your agency and separating your worth from harmful beliefs. This can include:

Working with a therapist who understands spiritual abuse and cultural context
Reconnecting with empowering spiritual practices
Building safe, affirming community outside harmful systems

🖤 Your faith, your boundaries, and your identity can coexist in ways that bring you peace — not pain.

📍 The Social Work Concierge offers culturally affirming therapy for Black women healing from religious trauma across Michigan.
📞 Call/Text: (616) 345-0616
🌐 http://www.socialworkconcierge.com
✉️ leonica@socialworkconcierge.com