In our stories
we find our pain.
In our pain
we find our passion.
And in our passion,
we find our purpose.
Considering Religious Trauma Coaching?
If you grew up in high-control religion, you likely already understand just how deeply this system impacts us in profound and complex ways, many of which leave lasting effects. Fundamentalist religion stunts our personal and emotional development, cutting us off from intimacy with others and most devastatingly, within ourselves.
In my coaching practice, I work with singles, couples, and families who are ready to rediscover themselves, grow in emotional health, process trauma, and experience a deeply satisfying life.
Freedom.
Want More?
Sign up for my weekly e-mail below: Freedom— filled with education and inspiration for breaking free from high-control religion, learning how to experience true emotional intimacy, and rediscovering who you really are.
Hi, I’m Kristi!
I’m excited you’re here. And I’m excited I’m here, too.
I never dreamed I’d be a religious trauma coach. You see, I was the poster-child Seventh-day Adventist. But when my mental health collapsed into religious psychosis in 2021, I knew something had to give.
My world fell apart from under me: My marriage, my friends, family, my sanity—everything was teetering on the brink.
My faith died. And maybe yours did too. They don’t tell you, do they? They don’t tell you that deconstruction isn’t a choice—it’s a wakeup call.
And I was so alone. I longed for someone to talk to, who could process, and help me make sense of what was happening inside of me.
That’s why I’m here. So many of us are profoundly alone on this deconstruction/reconstruction journey. I’m so honored to walk this path with you.
As a Religious Trauma Coach helping those who have left or are leaving high control religion, I offer virtual coaching to clients across the United States and Canada.
Welcome, friend.
Kristi Williams, MSN, RN, CLC, is a Religious Trauma Coach and former neuro-specialty nurse with a background in pediatric neurology, neuro-trauma, and stroke care. Drawing from her clinical expertise in brain science as well as her lived experience as a survivor of high-control religion, Kristi helps individuals heal the neurological and emotional impact of oppressive religion. After experiencing religious psychosis and rebuilding her life through trauma-informed healing, she now teaches the neurobiology of trauma, embodied trauma release, and the power of human connection. Her work blends scientific insight, compassion, and personal story to support others reclaiming their inner autonomy.
“Healing isn't moving forward. It's moving inward, visiting the same wounds with deeper awareness until they become your greatest wisdom.”
— Earthy Herbs @canna.pothecary
Get Your FREE Religious Trauma Impact Quiz
Discover how much lingering trauma may still be living in your nervous system even after leaving a high-control religion, a toxic family system, or controlling relationships.
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE QUIZ NOW!
Stories of Transformation
“Kristi has been amazing! She has created a safe space for me to get my thoughts into words and process them, but has also given valuable feedback. She’s been incredibly helpful to me on my healing journey. Highly recommend!”
— Amy A.
“Kristi has an incredible gift of communication and empathy. She truly listens and cares, pulling from her own experiences and knowledge to share insight, and help others move towards healing.”
— Beth W.
“Kristi played an incredible role in helping me escape a cult and navigate a destructive relationship. Her exceptional coaching skills provided me with the clarity and strength I needed. Coaching with Kristi truly set me free.”
— Andy P.
“I’d recommend Kristi to anyone looking for a non-judgmental space to process their life’s journey. Having someone like her to help process all the thoughts and emotions that go along with all of our questions and experiences is invaluable.”
— Mitchell B.
“Working with Kristi has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I was brainwashed by high control religion, weighed down by the need for parental approval, and unsure of my own voice. Kristi helped me begin the healing process through story work, somatic system work, shadow work and subconscious repatterning.
This guidance allowed me to untangle the emotional grip my parents had over me, not through blame, but with clarity and compassion. I learned how to set healthy boundaries, trust myself, and stop living according to someone else's expectations. For the first time, I feel like I’m living for me!”
— Krystal M.
Disclaimer: I am a coach, not a licensed therapist. I cannot legally diagnose or treat mental illness. I am here to support you on your journey and create a safe place for your personal discovery. All cases of clinical mental illness, or thought or intent to harm self or others will be referred.
All information or coaching advice shared is only the opinion of the coach and is not to be taken as medical or professional advice. Rise Within Coaching is not responsible or liable for any harm that may come from the result of any coaching session.
All clients’ identity and personal information will be protected as confidential unless mandatory reporting is required by law. All coaching clients must be 18 or older.