The purpose of Uncult Ōtautahi is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for individuals who have survived cult experiences to share, heal, and empower one another.
Currently we have survivors attending from the following groups: Jehovah’s Witnesses, Moonies, Shinjenochi, Subud, 2x2s, Camp David, Star Seed Ascension, Islam, Maga, Falun Gong and more.
The group is a collaborative environment led by survivors and facilitated by volunteers and a professional counsellor. Topics and discussions are based on suggestions from attendees ahead of time.
The protocol for running the group is a “living document” shared and accessible by all vetted survivors who can comment and make suggestions on its contents at any time.
Twice a month, we meet for 2 hours in an undisclosed central Christchurch location known only to vetted survivors. The meeting is facilitated by cult survivors who attend and participate in the meetings, currently these are Jaya Mangalam Gibson (ex-Fourth Way and ex-Falun Gong) and professional counsellor and cult survivor Alisa Woodruff (ex-Subud).
Spaces are limited to 10 people so that there is ample time for everyone to participate. This requires all attendees to RSVP for every meeting so that we can make sure that all available spaces can be filled.
To start the meeting Alisa leads the group in a check-in process where each attendee takes a few minutes to say how they are feeling, what challenges they are currently facing or nothing at all. Check-ins are completely optional. The length of time for each sharing depends on how many people are in the group at the time.
Depending on how long check-in takes, the group either takes a break for refreshments or continues on to discuss the topic of the day. Sometimes we run workshops on a specific topic such as “Critical Thinking” or “Boundaries”. Other times we engage in art therapy and a free flowing discussion.
At the end of the discussion Alisa leads a check-out process to see how everyone feels about the meeting and to address any concerns.
At any time, if a survivor is feeling upset or overwhelmed, they can leave the room and a volunteer will join them if they wish.
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