The Psychology of Cults is a gripping live show hosted by renowned cult interventionist Ashlen Hilliard which takes audiences deep inside the world of cults—how they form, why people join, and what it takes to break free.
From infamous groups like Jonestown, Heaven’s Gate, and NXIVM to lesser-known but equally insidious organizations, Ashlen unpacks the psychology, manipulation tactics, and hidden dangers that cults use to control their members as well as how coercion and abuse can happen in everyday life—within relationships, workplaces, wellness communities and social movements.
Keep reading to learn more about host Ashlen Hilliard and The Psychology of Cults!
In an interview with NJArts.net’s Jay Lustig, cult intervention specialist Ashlen Hilliard explains that The Psychology of Cults consists of an hour-long multimedia presentation, followed by an audience Q&A session, intended to bring “awareness, education, and ultimately, empowerment.”
Ashlen says that looking forward to the tour, she is interested to see how the audience’s questions differ by geographical location and regional differences. She expects the event to be attended not only by curious people and psychology professionals, but also former members of cults and those who are concerned about their loved ones who may be being manipulated.
Ashlen became an expert on this topic after beginning her work as a case manager with survivors of fundamentalist Mormon polygamist groups in Utah. She then branched out into cult recovery, got her master’s degree in the psychology of coercive control, and three years ago started her own consulting business called People Leave Cults to advise and assist people who have left cults. She hopes that in taking her show on tour, she can reduce stigma by making the topic approachable and interesting.
The Psychology of Cults comes to MPAC this Friday, October 17th at 8:00 PM. Don’t miss an evening of riveting discussion with Ashlen!
Recommended for ages 13+ age due to the subject matter, language, and images that some patrons may find disturbing.
