PIMO (Physically In, Mentally Out) describes someone who continues participating in the LDS Church outwardly while privately questioning, deconstructing, or no longer believing some or all of its teachings.
People may remain PIMO for many reasons, including marriage, family relationships, parenting concerns, financial dependence, community ties, or fear of losing important connections.
For a lot of people, the PIMO stage is part of a larger faith transition. Living between two realities, maintaining the appearance of belief while privately wrestling with doubts, questions, or changing values can be emotionally exhausting.
People describe this as feeling isolated, anxious, or disconnected during this period. Some experience symptoms associated with religious trauma, while others struggle with grief, identity confusion, people-pleasing, or fear of disappointing loved ones.
Being PIMO is often not a permanent identity. For many people, it represents a transitional stage as they navigate questions about faith, belonging, authenticity, and what comes next.
Hi, I’m Chelsey! I’m a licensed therapist and mom who knows firsthand how hard it can be to balance the demands of life, faith transitions, religious trauma, and motherhood. That’s why I’ve dedicated my practice to helping women like you—moms in various stages and transitions of motherhood—feel supported, empowered, and hopeful again.