Trusted Resources for Cult Recovery and Awareness
At Cult Insider, we believe information can be a lifeline. Whether you’re navigating your own healing, trying to support a loved one, or learning more about cult dynamics, this page offers resources to guide you.
Note: While we vet resources to the best of our ability, inclusion does not imply full endorsement. We encourage users to research and choose what’s right for them.
Understanding Cults
Visit the Cult Insider Blog for articles that dive deep into modern cults from around the world.
Explore how high-control groups manipulate belief systems, and how people break free.
FREE GUIDE: “What is A Cult” – PeopleLeaveCults.com
Hotlines & Emergency Help
SAMHSA National Helpline (USA):
Free, confidential support for mental health or substance use crises. Available 24/7. Call 1‑800‑662‑HELP (4357) or text your ZIP to 435748 (HELP4U).
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (USA):
Text or call 988 for immediate emotional support. Services include options for LGBTQ+ and veteran callers.
Crisis Text Line:
Available in the US, Canada, and UK. Text HOME (US) or 686‑868 (Canada) for free and confidential support.
If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Books & Documentaries
Soon, we’ll feature top-rated books, survivor memoirs, and investigative documentaries.
These stories and studies offer powerful insights into the reality of cult life and the journey out.
Healing & Recovery
Find trauma-informed therapy resources, support groups, and self-guided tools.
People Leave Cults:
Offers recovery coaching, support groups, and educational resources for survivors and families. Founded by Ashlen Hilliard, cult recovery specialist.
https://www.peopleleavecults.com
Wellspring Retreat & Resource Center (Ohio):
Residential treatment for survivors of cults and spiritual abuse, founded in 1986.
en.wikipedia.org
Dallas Cult Recovery (Texas):
Doug & Wendy Duncan offer long-running counseling and support services tailored to cult survivors. (214) 607‑1065
culteducation.com
Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan):
Coaching, education, and the Strategic Interactive Approach, a system for helping families heal from undue influence.
https://freedomofmind.com/
International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA):
Scholarship, referrals, member support, research, and conferences on high-control groups.
https://www.icsahome.com/home
RAINN Sexual Violence Advocacy
RAINN fights for survivors of sexual violence, advocating for laws that improve their pathways to justice and recovery, and holds offenders accountable.
https://rainn.org/
Our goal is to help survivors reclaim their lives. Mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Legal & Advocacy
Guidance on legal aid, protective orders, and reconnecting with loved ones.
FREE Cult Mediation Resources at CultMediation.com
Forensic Counselor Resources:
Offers free toolkits and assessment instruments designed for cult survivors and professionals. Includes apps and training materials.
https://forensiccounselor.org/?Topics_of_Interest__Cults_and_Support_for_Former_Cult_Members
Know a Great Resource?
We’re always expanding this page. If you know of a powerful tool, book, hotline, or organization that could help others, contact us and let us know.