Ellen Mennell

Spiritual/ Empowerment Coach

Ellen Mennell grew up in a restrictive environment that imposed unattainable demands on her as a woman. She was taught to be seen and not heard, which for years deeply affected her self-esteem and sense of belonging. Everything in the home focused on strict adherence to rules and maintaining purity in family life, personal life, and church life.
 
It would seem looking from the outside Ellen was a member of a perfect family that regularly attended church but also played an active role in the community. This outward involvement painted a picture of a harmonious family deeply rooted in faith, and yet this was far from the case.
 
While attending university, Ellen continued her involvement with the church along with studying Education. She graduated with degrees in Elementary Education, Correctional Education and Special Education.
 
Ellen taught 12 years and credit to her career she adopted and created a specialized behavior management program that focused on building self-esteem in young people using individualized lessons and exploratory activities.

Following her teaching career, Ellen pursued her love of travel by pioneering humanitarian missions for 15 years in over 20+ nations. Her work primarily centered around rescuing and restoring victims of trafficking, child soldiers, poverty, refugees, and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.
 
Living cross culturally, Ellen underwent a crisis of faith that prompted her to deconstruct her beliefs. The dogmas she had been taught began to clash with her core values of freedom, Peace, love, and compassion, leading her to question and reevaluate her religious upbringing.
 
This journey revealed religious trauma that subtly shaped her beliefs and mindset throughout her life. Ellen internalized a lot of guilt, shame, and fear associated with certain behaviors and beliefs. This affected her mental health and self-perception. Little by little the conditioning upended causing her to challenge and redefine her understanding of spirituality, healing, and self-acceptance.
 
Though Advocate of Soul specializes in supporting people as they navigate religious deconstruction, Ellen offers LIVE Speaking events, has certifications in Life and Mindfulness Coaching, is a Women’s Circle Facilitator, where she leads once a year an on-line 8-week Sacred Circle Group called Miracles in Jade.