Hi! My name is Ashlen Hilliard, and I'm a Cult Intervention Specialist. I founded People Leave Cults because I'm deeply committed to helping individuals and families affected by coercive groups.

My approach is comprehensive, drawing on my academic expertise, professional background, and my personal dedication.

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I hold an MSc in the Psychology of Coercive Control, and I conducted the first exploratory quantitative research on reproductive coercion within cultic groups, which was published in the International Journal of Coercion, Abuse, and Manipulation.

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My experience has included providing direct support within polygamist communities as a case manager, organizing international conferences for professionals in the cult field, and facilitating local support groups for survivors. As an advocate, I've been fortunate to share my insights with major media outlets, and I'm also an Executive Producer on an upcoming film focused on this crucial topic.​​

Building community is also essential to me. I actively volunteer as an organizer of the Spiritual Abuse Forum for Education in Portland, Oregon and have organized local survivor conferences. I'm also a certified Peer Support Specialist with the Oregon Health Authority.

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My vision is to enhance the resources and opportunities available in the cult recovery field. I believe that my personal experiences and professional experience allow me to offer compassionate, non-coercive support to those who need it.