Curated by Ian Broadmore D.Hyp-Psy, SQHP, MIAH, Psychotherapist & Hypnotherapist (Abintra Clinic)
The “Conspirituality” and New Age movements create deep psychological and social “traps” that can be difficult to exit without a structured approach. On this page, we provide clinically grounded tools and resources designed to help you deconstruct high-control narratives, process the cognitive dissonance, and reclaim your internal locus of control.
1. Immediate Grounding Techniques for Cognitive Overload
When a guru’s videos or writings induce anxiety or a light trance state, your central nervous system needs immediate grounding to return to a calm state.
- The 5-4-3-2-1 Technique: Engage your five senses to anchor yourself in the physical present.
- 5: Name five things you can see.
- 4: Name four things you can feel (fabric of chair, feet on floor).
- 3: Name three things you can hear.
- 2: Name two things you can smell.
- 1: Name one thing you can taste.
- Square Breathing (Box Breathing): Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds. This physically downregulates the autonomic nervous system.
2. Deconstructing the Narrative: The BITE Model
To understand if you are involved in a high-control group or following a narcissistic guru, apply Dr. Steven Hassan’s BITE Model. Analyze the level of control being applied to you in these four areas:
| Area of Control | Questions for Self-Reflection |
| B – Behavior | Are you asked to modify your finances, relationships, or sleep (e.g., watching hours of 3 AM livestreams)? |
| I – Information | Does the guru label all mainstream information as “the Cabal” and insist they are the only source of truth? |
| T – Thought | Do you use “thought-terminating clichés” (e.g., “The plan is complex” or “timeline shifted”) to stop critical thoughts? |
| E – Emotion | Is your sense of belonging conditional on unwavering belief? Do you feel intense guilt or fear at the thought of questioning the guru? |
3. The Exit Strategy: Reclaiming Grounded Reality
- The Media Fast: Commit to a 48-hour “Conspiracy Cleanse.” Turn off all alternative media and gurus. Notice the immediate drop in your nervous system’s high-cortisol vigilance.
- Reconnect with “3D” Humanity: Intentionally reach out to a grounded friend or family member whom you have drifted from. Speak only about grounded, human topics (hobbies, weather, family). Notice the relief of a simple conversation.
- Audit Your Internal Dialogue: When you see a “pattern” or “sign,” ask yourself: “Is this Apophenia, or is this logical evidence? What would a psychotherapist tell me about this conclusion?”
4. Seeking Clinical Support
The transition from a conspiratorial reality to a grounded one can trigger severe cognitive dissonance, anxiety, and depression. It is often necessary to process this with a mental health professional who is trained in treating trauma, dissociation, and cult recovery.
My Clinical Practice
For individualized, professional support, I continue to practice at the Abintra Clinic, London. If you wish to schedule a consultation, you can find contact information there.
Third-Party Global Resources
- The International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA): Providing research and support for recovery. icsahome.com
- Cult Information Centre (UK): Dedicated to helping victims and their families. cultinformation.org.uk
- Freedom of Mind Resource Center: Led by Dr. Steven Hassan, a leading voice in high-control recovery. freedomofmind.com
A Vital Note on Mental Health: If you or someone you know is in immediate psychological distress, please do not wait. Call 988 (USA), 111 (UK), or your local emergency services. This is a medical emergency, not a spiritual battle.