There are so many cults; they are all so very helpful. That is how they get people hooked into them. They bend over backwards to be helpful. They begin to draw you in to their group and to withdraw you from your friends. Tell her to watch for the isolation. They don't even want you to see your family--mother,sister, anyone who may help you think. They do all the thinking for you. They tell you everything.
Actually they indoctrinate you with their beliefs. It is all based on kindness, trust, and isolation and so called teaching. Like your friend they never believe it is a cult and don't like it when you talk against it.