Date: July 1, 2026
Session summary
This peer-led workshop offers former members of cultic and high-control groups a supportive space to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. Facilitated by individuals with lived experience, the session explores common challenges of life after group involvement, including identity, relationships, recovery, and resilience. Participants will gain insight, practical perspectives, and a sense of community through open discussion and shared understanding.
Full Abstract
This workshop is designed exclusively for former members of cultic and high-control groups, including both first-generation adults who joined such groups and second- or multi-generation adults who were born or raised within them. The workshop provides a confidential, peer-led space where participants can connect with others who share similar experiences, exchange insights, and learn from one another in an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding.
Facilitated by former members with lived experience of cultic involvement, the workshop is not intended as group therapy and does not employ a therapeutic model. Rather, it offers an opportunity for participants to engage in open discussion about the challenges and opportunities of life after a high-control environment. Topics may include identity reconstruction, relationships, family dynamics, recovery, resilience, and navigating the broader world after group involvement.
Through guided conversation and peer support, participants will have the opportunity to share perspectives, build connections, and explore common themes that emerge across diverse cultic experiences. The workshop aims to foster community, reduce isolation, and create a space where former members can learn from the collective wisdom and experiences of others who understand the unique challenges of life beyond a high-control group.
Speakers
Licensed Psychotherapist, Trainer, and Consultant | ICSA Board Member
Adam Arnold is a licensed psychotherapist, trainer, and consultant living and working in St. Paul, Minnesota. He has special interest in working with persons who have been wounded by systems of control, including survivors (ages five and up) of religious, spiritual, medical, and therapeutic abuse. Central to his clinical work is gaining consent for psychotherapy from all of his clients—ensuring that they are driving their goals for treatment—regardless of their age. A current Board Member at ICSA, Adam also serves as Vice Chair of the Minnesota Board of Marriage and Family Therapy. In his personal time, Adam spends time watching scary movies, singing musical theater, and strengthening his broken spine.
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Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Trauma Therapist
Melea Peloquin, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in trauma-informed care, identity development, and supporting individuals navigating life transitions and recovery from high-control environments. Raised as a Jehovah’s Witness and coming from a sixth-generation family within the faith, Melea brings both lived experience and professional expertise to her work with former members of high-control groups.
Drawing on her personal journey, clinical training, and therapeutic practice, she has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges and healing processes experienced by former Jehovah’s Witnesses. Melea is passionate about increasing awareness, compassion, and understanding among professionals working with this population while helping individuals reconnect with themselves, their values, and their lives after leaving high-control systems. She considers it a privilege to share insights gained through both personal and professional experience and is honored to contribute to the work of the International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA).
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