Secular and Non-Religious Therapy in Utah
Affirming of Atheist, Agnostic & Diverse Worldviews
Schedule a Free 15-Minute Consultation
If you have questions before scheduling, feel free to call our billing & scheduling specialist at (801) 441-5652.
A Place Where Your Beliefs Are Respected
At New Heights Counseling, I offer therapy that respects your worldview and the values that shape your life. Whether you identify as atheist, agnostic, spiritual-but-not-religious, part of a faith community, or have transitioned from long-held beliefs, this is a place where your perspective is honored.
Therapy here is about exploring your experiences, values, and worldview without pressure to have any particular belief system. Your perspective serves as the foundation for our work together, guiding the process of healing and growth in a way that aligns with your life and experiences.
Why Clients Seek Secular & Belief-Affirming Therapy in Utah
Many clients come to New Heights Counseling because they’re seeking therapy that feels affirming of who they are, including their secular or non-religious worldview. Therapy can be a space to explore meaning, connection, and growth in ways that align with your beliefs and values. You may be:
Looking for therapy that aligns with a secular or non-religious worldview after moving to Utah
Navigating life after leaving a high-demand or high-control religious environment
Seeking connection, purpose, or community outside of organized religion
Reconciling personal identity with philosophical or spiritual beliefs
Processing painful or harmful religious experiences
Exploring values, ethics, and meaning in life
Communicating beliefs and boundaries with confidence
New Heights Counseling welcomes clients of all faiths, spiritual backgrounds, and philosophical perspectives. Your values and goals guide our work together.
Evidence-Based, Non-Religious Therapy Tailored to Your Needs
I use an integrative, evidence-informed approach that centers your lived experiences, values, and goals. Depending on your needs, we may focus on:
Clarifying your worldview and values while staying true to yourself
Healing from religious or spiritual trauma in a safe, supportive environment
Navigating relationships where belief or value differences arise
Building self-trust and confidence in your own decisions and perspective
Creating a meaningful life aligned with what matters most to you
My Approach to Secular & Non-Religious Therapy
Therapy at New Heights Counseling is never one-size-fits-all. I use an integrative, evidence-informed approach that combines trauma-informed and humanistic care with practical tools to support your growth and understanding.
Depending on your needs, sessions may include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Developing new ways of thinking and responding to challenges
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and EMDR Informed Approaches– Processing trauma and reducing emotional distress from painful experiences
Trauma-Informed and Trauma-Focused Care – Working at a pace that supports grounding, integration, and healing
Humanistic and Narrative Therapy – Exploring your story, identity, and the beliefs that shape your life
Existential and Client-Centered Practices – Supporting authenticity and meaning-making on your own terms
Mindfulness and Present-Moment Awareness – Cultivating calm, focus, and connection to the present
Strength-Based and Values-Oriented Approaches – Highlighting your inner resources and what matters most to you
Cody Merrell, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Salt Lake City providing affirming, trauma-informed therapy for adults seeking secular and non-religious support.

