
Dr. Grisel Lopez-Escobar, PhD (Counseling)
Licensed Mental Health Counselor offering virtual therapy to adult clients in 19 U.S. states
Working with people who are questioning, deconstructing, or leaving high-control religions, groups, or cults
Infidel
A derogatory term used to describe someone who is not part of a specific faith or who rejects its core doctrines
You’re labeled an infidel after disclosing your loss of belief.
You are excluded from community events and conversations.
You are viewed as morally inferior or spiritually “lost.”
Potential clinical implications (especially in high control settings)
Dehumanization and marginalization may foster feelings of worthlessness or fear.
Social rejection can occur, especially in cultures where religious conformity is tied to acceptance.
Heightened identity conflict could arise as you're forced to reconcile your new beliefs with community rejection.