Still unpacking what happened after your ‘breakthrough’—or years inside the movement?
A LOW cost, confidential support group for people navigating the emotional, mental, and social impact of high-control personal development experiences.
Maybe you were a volunteer, a coach-in-training, or full-time staff.
Maybe you gave everything you had to an org that promised impact and transformation… and left you burned out, confused, or grieving the parts of yourself you lost along the way.
You went to make a difference and grow instead you left confused, duped or even feeling like a failure.
In this group wed focus on healing and learning. We explore questions like …
- “What just happened in there?”
- “Why did I stay so long?”
- “Am I the only one feeling this way?”
- “Was I actually manipulated?”
- “What about the good stuff—can I still keep it?”
You’re not overreacting—and you’re not alone.
We created this group because people need space to heal, reflect, and reclaim their inner compass—without being told they’re broken, resistant, or not “playing full out.”
In the group discussions, you will learn about the unique dynamics, manipulation tactics, and common psychological effects of being involved in high-control environments or relationships.
What is a LGAT?
LGAT stands for “Large Group Awareness Training.”
These are high-intensity, immersive programs that use psychological and social pressure to catalyze transformation. Think: Landmark, PSI, MITT, Tony Robbins events, and some coaching containers or business masterminds.
They’re not all harmful—but they often cross emotional, relational, and ethical boundaries without clear consent.
We’re not here to vilify. We’re here to support.
The Details
Who's it For:
Anyone impacted by high-control coaching cultures, personal development programs, or seminar-style group work—whether you just left, or have been out for years but still feel the impact.
ESPECIALLY for former Staff, leaders and trainees!
Schedule & How Much:
2x Monthly Rachel Sessions
- Third Monday : 9am - 10:30/11am
- First Thursday: 4pm - 5:30/6pm
All times shown in Pacific Time
(Los Angeles)
$100 a Month Contribution
About the Group:
Ready to start untangling the confusion—on your own terms?
You’re not a failure
You just need space to make sense of what happened.
The suggested monthly contribution amount is $100. This covers the basic expenses of Dr Rachel and the iLumn8 admin team. However we are VERY committed that no one be turned away for lack of ability to pay. For this reason we are making some alternate contribution options available, they are ...
Some have expressed a desire to contribute to others' ability to participate by contributing extra each month, this opportunity will be offered in the Welcome email you will receive.
Rachel Bernstein
Rachel Bernstein is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Cult Specialist. Her areas of expertise include family and relationship counseling in addition to cult intervention, cult recovery, and re-acclimation expert.
Rachel's Credentials include:
- Bachelor of Science
- Masters of Education (MSEd)
- Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT)
USC, Rossier School of Education - Licensure- Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Check Out Rachel's Podcast ...
IndoctriNATION is a weekly podcast that delves deep into the world of cults, manipulators, and the various systems of control that exist in society.
Each episode aims to educate and enlighten listeners on how to recognize and protect themselves from manipulative tactics and coercive environments. The podcast features expert interviews, in-depth analyses, and real-life stories to explore the psychology behind cults and manipulative individuals, offering tools and insights to help listeners stay informed and safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
The schedule is designed to accommodate as many time zones as possible. We are offering sessions as outline below, you may attend one or both whatever works for you and supports your recovery. Attendance is NEVER required!
All times are shown in Pacific Time (PT) / Los Angeles
MONDAYS
Starting, July 29, 2024
Recurring the THIRD Monday of every month
TIME: 9am to 11:30 or Noon
Each session will last 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on the number of people in attendance.
THURSDAYS
Starting, August 8, 2024
Recurring the FIRST Thursday of every month
TIME: 4pm to 5:30 or 6:00pm
Each session will last 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on the number of people in attendance.
In addition to the Group Sessions with Dr Rachel, you are welcome to attend the alternating weekly open discussion groups hosted by Anne L. Peterson, author of Is This a Cult?.
BONUS Open Discussion on Tuesday Evenings 5pm - 6:30pm
All times are shown in Pacific Time (PT) / Los Angeles
Hosted the weeks we DO NOT have a Healing Session with Rachel
The sessions will not be recorded to protect the the confidentiality and privacy of the participants in the sessions.
Regarding the weekly open discussions, from time to time these will be recorded, particularly when there is a guest speaker. You will be notified well in advance and ALWAYS have the opportunity to opt out of any recording.
We understand the sensitive nature of this type of work and there are ways to participate confidentially. If you have a specific question or request please email us at [email protected].
In general, who is being invited are previous employees, program leaders, consultants, volunteers and participants who feel they have been emotionally, spiritually, physically or verbally harmed through their participation or employment.
This group is therapeutic and educational in nature. We recognize people are in many different places and in general, a group that has mixed participation and experience is most supportive.