The line between cultic behavior and genuine therapeutic practices seems to blur when you dive deep into the controversial methods of Jodi Hildebrandt. A recent episode of "Hidden Killers" featuring Tony Brueski and former FBI Special Agent Robin Dreeke raises the question: When does unchecked power and influence steer away from genuine care and into the dangerous realm of manipulation?
Jodi Hildebrandt, before her arrest, served as a licensed counselor. Disturbingly, she was recommended by the Mormon Church for her counseling services up until 2012. The church's withdrawal of endorsement came on the heels of Hildebrandt violating HIPAA rules, unveiling confidential information about a patient.
Emerging stories from former clients reveal a troubling pattern in Hildebrandt's practice. Accusations range from methodically separating spouses, pathologizing normal behavior as addiction, and persuading patients to distance themselves from anyone who opposed her advice.
Dreeke made a stark observation: "Welcome to another world of someone trying to form a cult." He further elaborated, pointing out classic cult behaviors manifested in Hildebrandt's methods – controlling information, isolating individuals, and exploiting them. And most disturbingly, Dreeke notes how she seemed to have created her own unique labels for addictions, ones not recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
A troubling revelation Brueski emphasized was how many of these cases, including Hildebrandt's, had ties to the Church of Latter-Day Saints (LDS). It's essential to note that Dreeke clarified his stance, saying, "Religion has been, it doesn’t matter what religion, it's always been the backbone of many cults that have done harm." He expressed concern over the disproportionate number of cases arising from current or former LDS members.
However, both hosts recognized the global contributions of the LDS church, praising its teachings of love, compassion, and non-discrimination. Dreeke offered a theory on why certain individuals may exploit such teachings, "What cults do is to suck you in as they love bomb you." This 'love bombing' technique, he elaborated, is about overwhelming a person with attention and affection. It's a potent strategy that often targets those feeling isolated or disenfranchised in their lives.
Such tactics lead to the significant question posed during their discussion: Do people who start cults even recognize they're doing so? Many, including Hildebrandt, may have deep convictions, but without proper checks and balances, these beliefs can spiral into something far more sinister, especially if spearheaded by a charismatic leader.
Dreeke pointed out that the term 'cult' has garnered a negative connotation over the years, yet many benign groups may have started in similar manners – with a small group of followers led by a charismatic leader. However, the distinction between a harmless group and a cult lies in the tactics employed: isolation, control of information, and harm (physical, psychological, or shaming).
The episode shed light on a grim reality: cult-like groups might not always be large, visible entities. They might be lurking in everyday settings, masked under the guise of therapy sessions or small group gatherings.
Thus, as the hosts of "Hidden Killers" continue their explorations into the shadowy corners of society, the ending question lingers: How many more undetected cults might be silently operating in plain sight?
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