TM
Dr. Grisel Lopez-Escobar
PhD in Counseling · Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
LPC / LMHC · Licensed Mental Health Counselor offering virtual therapy to adults
Working with people who are questioning, deconstructing, or leaving high-control religions, groups, or cults
Licensed in AK, AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, ID, IN, LA, ME, MA, OR, SC, TX, UT, VT, WI & WY
DARVO
A common abuse response pattern: Deny the harm, Attack the harmed person, and Reverse Victim and Offender.
When you name harm, you are accused of being divisive or sinful.
Your character is questioned instead of the behavior being addressed.
The institution portrays itself as persecuted or misunderstood.
Potential clinical implications (especially in high control settings)
Exposure to this pattern can erode confidence in memory, perception, and emotional responses.
Confusion may arise about whether harm actually occurred.
Naming the pattern often helps restore clarity and self-trust.