Couples & Trauma, Attachment, and

Relationship- Focused Practice

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Whether you're coming as a couple wanting to strengthen your connection, or as an individual longing to grow in emotional and relational maturity, I want to begin with this truth:

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Seeking help is not weakness — it is wisdom. It is courage. It is the first step toward healing.

 

My name is Dr. Carolyn Litteral — “Dr. L.”
And yes, my last name really is pronounced Literal — literally.

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I am a relationship and trauma therapist with more than 15 years of clinical experience. But more importantly, I am a woman whose life has been shaped by both lived experience and the tools of science.

 

My personal healing journey involved God in profound ways — that is true for me.
But I also know that many people have been wounded by religion, harmed by purity culture, or shaped by spiritual systems that used fear, shame, or control instead of love and safety.

 

Because of this, I do not assume or impose faith on anyone.
Ever.

Your story drives the work — not mine.

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A Safe Space for All Stories of Faith or None at All

Some clients want Christian integration.
Some do not.
Some are unsure.
Some are untangling years of religious trauma and spiritual abuse.

All of these experiences are welcome here.

I specialize in:

• Spiritual abuse recovery
• Purity culture harm
• Religious environments rooted in male dominance or control
• Rebuilding identity after fear-based or shame-based theology

 

If faith was used to wound you, we will work gently and thoughtfully.
If faith is a source of comfort and grounding, we can integrate it.
If you prefer a strictly clinical, non-religious approach, that is completely respected.

You set the tone. You set the boundaries. You choose the path.

 

Who I Serve

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I work best with:

• Individuals seeking emotional healing and relational growth
• Couples committed to strengthening their partnership

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I primarily treat monogamous couples who desire to deepen their connection with each other and with themselves — emotionally, mentally, and spiritually if they choose.

This is not a stance rooted in judgment, but in alignment with my training, values, and the models of care I offer.

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I respect people from all walks of life and all relationship structures.
If we determine I am not the best fit, I will help you find someone who is aligned with your needs.

Clarity is not exclusion — it is kindness, honesty, and good stewardship for both of us.

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My Approach: Science + Optional Christian Integration

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My work is grounded in:

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• Evidence-based trauma relational care
• Attachment theory and relational neuroscience such as EMDR and attachment based healing
• Emotionally focused and experiential models like Gottman and EFT Couples
• Sex therapy rooted in safety, connection, and integrity

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For clients who want it, I can integrate:

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• Christian-aligned principles
• Spiritual perspectives of restoration and intimacy
• Meaning-making that honors your beliefs and worldview

Nothing is ever forced. Nothing is assumed.
You choose the role — if any — that faith plays in your healing.

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What You Can Expect

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• Warmth, compassion, and zero judgment
• Respect for your story, your boundaries, and your dignity
• A trauma-informed approach to faith, spirituality, or deconstruction
• Grace + accountability
• Written session summaries and guided practices
• A therapist committed to honoring science — and your personal values
• Optional Christian work for those who desire it

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If You're Ready

📱 830-357-8933
(Please text — I am often in session and do not take calls on weekends)

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You are not broken.
Your story is not finished.
Healing is possible — and you do not have to walk it alone.

With warmth, clarity, and wholehearted care,

Dr. Carolyn “Dr. L” Litteral