Ingrid Campbell

Counsellor & Storyteller

Ingrid Campbell is a counsellor, creative arts therapist, writer, storyteller and education facilitator based in Waihōpai, Invercargill where she sits on the board of the Re:Woven Therapy Trust. A New Zealand-born Māori Kūki ‘Āirani (Cook Island Māori) woman with Swedish and Scottish whakapapa, Ingrid’s work draws on cultural identity, creative practice and her lived experience growing up in a family cult. Her book Grief Like Wild Horses explores grief, trauma, identity, belonging and sustainable wellbeing through poetry, storytelling, visual arts and reflective practice. Ingrid seeks to create inclusive spaces where people feel seen, valued and empowered to reclaim their narratives. She is the cultural and wellbeing advisor for Decult.

PRESENTATION

Guru, Pastor or Parent: Understanding Family Cults

Family cults are among the least recognised cultic groups and often confused with “replacement families”. This presentation focuses on existing family units that develop cult-like dynamics, usually under a controlling or charismatic parent. They may operate within religious communities or independently. We will explore common features and offer insight through real examples and from Ingrid’s lived experience.

DECULT 2026

What to Expect

  • 50+ local and international speakers in 30+ sessions
  • 12 additional online sessions for North America & Europe
  • Survivor Story Jam (our highlight!)
  • Lunchtime meet-ups, information booths and book signings
  • Fully catered with lunch and morning/afternoon tea
  • Mental health support and calm zones
  • Media room and security guards
  • All sessions are recorded to watch later
  • Post-conference support day for survivors

 

Attendees can look forward to expert panels, survivor-led discussions and contributions from authors, academics, therapists and legal advocates. Have a look at the highlights from our inaugural conference to get inspired!

30+
SESSIONS

50+
SPEAKERS

LIVESTREAMED

Those unable to attend in person can join us online again (at a reduced ticket price). In 2024, more than 250 attendees watched the live stream.

INTERNATIONAL

We are expanding the programme online – round the clock & round the world – with 20+ live sessions on Zoom for time zones in Europe and America.

WORKSHOPS

After the Decult conference, the Olive Leaf Network offers trainings and workshops with US cult expert Rachel Bernstein in Auckland and Wellington.

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