Jenny Hayworth is an Australian author and psychologist whose writing explores themes of trauma, resilience, and recovery. Her debut memoir, "Inside/Outside," published in 2014, chronicles her personal journey through childhood sexual abuse and three decades within the Jehovah's Witnesses faith, offering a powerful narrative of healing and self-discovery. Drawing from her professional background in psychology and firsthand experiences with religious fundamentalism, Hayworth's work provides insight into the lasting effects of trauma and the process of rebuilding one's identity.
Born in England in 1965, Hayworth emigrated to Australia as a child before later relocating to New Zealand and eventually returning to Australia as an adult. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, which informs her advocacy for survivors of abuse and religious shunning. Her career includes working with prisoners and volunteering as a crisis counselor for a suicide prevention hotline, further deepening her understanding of human resilience. Hayworth's writing blends her academic expertise with her lived experiences, creating narratives that resonate with those facing similar challenges.
Now residing in Australia with her husband and blended family, Hayworth balances her writing with tending to her permaculture garden and caring for her animals. Her memoir stands as a testament to her commitment to helping others navigate the complexities of trauma recovery and estrangement from rigid belief systems. Through her work, she continues to advocate for marginalized individuals, including abuse survivors and refugees, offering hope through shared experience.