We’re a fledgling organisation here to make noise. While we don’t offer counselling, intervention, transitioning support or legal services, the core strength of Decult lies in connection, creative activism and media visibility.
With an experienced journalist at the helm, we’re raising public awareness about cultic harm to shift narratives. Around us is a growing network of skilled, passionate people from all fields across Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond – each taking this shared cause in their own direction.
Professionals and Policy Makers
Many survivors of cults are taught to distrust doctors, social workers, police and therapists. Their unique needs are often overlooked when their complex backgrounds aren’t understood. At the same time, there’s a lack of therapists and counsellors specialised in cult recovery (learn more here).
The Cult-Informed Professional (CIP) Network was launched in 2025 by Christchurch GP Dr Caroline Ansley as an independent, non-hierarchical platform. It connects professionals in health, law enforcement, social work, research and education across Aotearoa and Australia to share knowledge and coordinate responses – from HealthPathways to webinars, continued professional development and more.
Mental Health Practitioners
In 2024, Decult keynote speaker Dr Gillie Jenkinson, a UKCP accredited psychotherapist specialising in coercive control, religious trauma and group-based abuse, led two pioneering post-cult recovery trainings for more than 80 mental health professionals. These were a first in New Zealand, organised by the Olive Leaf Network with support from the Gloriavale Leavers’ Support Trust.
We also collaborate with the Religious Trauma Collective who have recommendations for specialised therapists and counsellors in Australia and New
Zealand.
Survivor workshops and local groups
We amplify the voices of cult survivors and help with the set-up of in-person peer support groups for former members. The Decult 2024 conference became a powerful catalyst for connection. It inspired the formation of local support groups in Ōtautahi Christchurch and Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, both facilitated by practitioners trained by Dr Gillie Jenkinson.
The Olive Leaf Network, one of our partners, also runs annual workshops and offers ongoing support to help former members. Find out more about resources, support services other organisations in our wider network that we recommend.
Meet our Advocates
Read more here: Why doctors, therapists, academics, activists and journalists – some with a lived experience of cultic harm – support Decult.
