About this episode
S2 E6 – 9 Best Practices for Faith Leaders With Tara McCausland A H.E.R. Wings Unfold Production
Donate now to support H.E.R. Wings Unfold: https://herwingsunfold.org/donate/ Find a TS-12 Anon Meeting: https://www.ts12anon.org/find-a-meeting.html
Welcome to Relational Trauma SOS! In this episode, we’re honored to speak with Tara McCausland about 9 Best Practices for Faith Leaders—a powerful guide developed by S.A. Lifeline to help clergy and spiritual leaders support individuals and couples affected by another’s unwanted sexual behavior.
These best practices are especially important for anyone ministering to people navigating betrayal trauma, abuse, addiction, adultery, or abandonment. Whether you're a pastor, bishop, therapist, or community leader, this conversation offers insight and empathy for guiding those in crisis.
We also highlight the growing need for trauma-sensitive healing communities and share some heartfelt updates about the expanding reach of TS-12 Anon, our 12-step program for survivors of relational trauma.
In this episode:
Why faith leaders are like first responders in trauma care
How to support both the affected partner and the offending individual
Why separate meetings with each spouse are crucial
Understanding betrayal trauma and how it impacts the brain and body
Recognizing and respecting the affected partner’s timeline for healing and forgiveness
The importance of compassion and accountability
“Understand, faith leader, that this is not a marriage issue. It’s something that’s happened within the marriage.” – Dr. Barbara Steffens
? Special Note From the Host We’ve been wonderfully overwhelmed by the number of survivors joining TS-12 Anon groups. If you're seeking a safe, trauma-informed community, we invite you to join us. We are also forming new groups tailored to specific experiences—such as domestic violence, childhood trauma, or being the loved one of an alcoholic. Email hello@ts12anon.org if you're interested.
Here’s what one anonymous participant recently shared:
“I believe TS-12 Anon was the missing piece in my healing journey. I’m already noticing a shift within myself and I feel like I’m reconnecting all the parts of me that were shattered and scattered at Discovery.”
If you’ve been waiting for an invitation, here it is.
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