Counsel for Life

In this episode we are joined by Jack Carson , Executive Director of the Center for Apologetics and Cultural Engagement at Liberty University. Jack has co-written a book called, Surprised by Doubt: How Disillusionment Can Deepen Our Faith .   Today he shares with us some insights into how Christians think about doubt and how their questions can either stunt or strengthen their faith. He also share...

In this episode we talk with Phil Monroe , Christian Psychologist with over 30 years of experience in working with trauma survivors. Phil shares how his faith influences his counseling practice, as well as his perspective on how trauma care has changed over the years in the counseling room and in the Church. Check out more resources created by Phil by clicking HERE .  Become a friend of the podcas...

This episode features Liz Edrington , minister to young adults and author of Anxiety: Finding the Better Story. Liz shares her expertise about the anxiety teens are facing and how God's Word speaks to their struggles. She offers years of experience in leading our teens into conversations that will help them experience God's love and comfort. Today’s episode is sponsored by P&R Publis...

Staying emotionally healthy is essential in order to create longevity in ministry. In this episode we discuss some of the common struggles faced by pastors, ministers, and counselors, and we talk about four things that will help us continue to stay emotionally resilient and keep our faith strong. Today’s episode is sponsored by P&R Publishing, whose mission is to serve Christ and his church by...

This episode features Jeff Dalrymple, executive director of the Evangelical Council for Abuse Prevention (ECAP).  Jeff talks with us about how this organization was formed and its benefits for churches who want to protect the children within their ministries. He gives us helpful signs to spot abuse and grooming behavior in perpetrators, and he reminds us of our responsibility to report abuse when...

In this episode, we talk with Adam O'Neill, psychiatric physician's assistant. Adam shares with us his perspective on holistic Christ-centered care for the mind and body. He speaks specifically to some common concerns Christians voice about the use of psychiatric medications in the treatment of struggles such as depression and anxiety. Adam has created resources for those who want to lea...

What is lament and why does it matter? Can we as Christians be obedient to rejoice always and still give voice to our deepest struggles and pain? In this episode, pastor and author Mark Vroegop joins us and explains why lament is essential to the Christian life and how it is process-oriented to help us bridge the realities of pain and joy.  You will also hear about how his church has put lament in...

This episode includes a discussion about elements we believe are necessary in order for counseling to be effective. This is the second of a two-part series in which we will discuss the importance of listening skills, asking good questions, and healthy self-reflection. We'll also talk about the essential role of the Holy Spirit in the counseling process. And don't forget to listen to Epis...

There is a battle within all of us. It is a struggle to triumphantly embrace and hold on to the identity that is ours in Christ. In this episode, we talk with Paul Tautges , a pastor, biblical counselor, and author of many books on topics related to Christian living, pastoral ministry, parenting, and counseling. Paul is sharing from his heart about the content of his new book, Remade: Embracing Yo...

This episode features Chris Moles , pastor and contributing author of a new book, Caring for Families Caught in Domestic Abuse . Chris shares with us about the need for a comprehensive, Christ-centered response to the spiritual, emotional, and physical harm that domestic abuse causes to the abused spouse, the abusive spouse, and their children.  The new book is a guide for pastors and ministry lea...

In this episode we will talk with Christine Chappell , author of the book Midnight Mercies: Walking with God through Depression in Motherhood .  Christine offers compassion for mothers who are struggling with despair and sadness as she shares her own story and gives wisdom from Scripture for those who need encouragement and motivation to keep moving forward. Today’s episode is sponsored by P&R...

This episode includes a discussion about elements we believe are necessary in order for counseling to be effective. This is the first of a two-part series in which we will discuss the importance of relationship and rapport-building, intentional conversations, and established goals and purpose. Whether you are a counselor, a counselee or someone who is looking for good counseling, you will benefit...

In this first episode of Season 3, we talk about our ministry of counseling and how we both became licensed counselors and biblical counselors. You will learn some of the pros and cons of becoming licensed, as well as information about the possibilities for careers when you are an unlicensed biblical counselor. For our listeners who are not counselors, you will learn what to look for in a counselo...

In this episode we give a clear definition of dissociation, as well as how to spot it in yourself and others. We dispel some of the myths surrounding what it means to dissociate, and we give some practical tips for what to do when dissociation becomes a hindrance to your daily life. This episode will be helpful for counselors, pastors and anyone who may dissociate from time to time (which is all o...

In this episode we talk abut ways we can come alongside the children and teens in our lives who may be struggling with mental and emotional health. We'll discuss the need to normalize the child's suffering, and we'll share ways to spend time engaging in his interests and needs. Finally, we'll share some signs to look for that may indicate you need to get additional help for you...

In this episode we discuss the typical ways we tend to cope with unwanted thoughts that seem to create anxiety, and we share tips for calming those thoughts in a moment of distress. We also share a tool for considering what these thoughts are telling us and how to take them captive to the obedience of Christ.  Note:  This episode was originally released exclusively to our Patreon subscribers durin...

In this episode, Eliza and Beth talk about lessons they've learned as their children have grown into adulthood, and they give insight into how to stay connected to adult children as they grow and change. You'll learn some practical tips for leaning into the relationship without becoming overbearing or intrusive.  Note:  This episode was originally released exclusively to our Patreon subs...

In this episode, we discuss the spectrum of views about the use of medication in the treatment of mental health concerns. We talk about how to seek wisdom from experts and wise counselors, and we give some words of caution regarding the over-emphasis of medication in the healing process.  Click below to access the article by Esther Smith that we reference in this episode: https://esthermariesmith....

In this episode we talk about the work we do in marriage counseling, specifically as we guide couples toward recognizing how their words impact each other. We discuss ways to grow in self-awareness, as well as ways to involve wise people in the work of growing a healthy marriage. Note:  This episode was originally released exclusively to our Patreon subscribers during Season 2 of Counsel for Life....

Sometimes when we're walking with someone who is struggling, they share things that indicate an issue we cannot keep to ourselves. In November's bonus episode, we discuss situations in which we may need to bring other people into our counseling and discipleship conversations.  Note:  This episode was originally released exclusively to our Patreon subscribers during Season 2 of Counsel fo...

Scripture is the most important source of wisdom as we move through the world. In this episode we talk about practical and personal ways we engage with Scripture, and specifically how our personal engagement leads us toward guiding and encouraging others. Note:  This episode was originally released exclusively to our Patreon subscribers during Season 2 of Counsel for Life. Any promotions or giveaw...

In this episode we give some ideas for how we can creatively engage with the stories of our past in order to flourish in the present and future. We discuss ways we work with clients related to healing from past wounds, and specifically the ways our beliefs can be shaped by painful events. We also talk about the importance of grieving painful things in order to connect with God, others and ourselve...

This episode includes an encouraging conversation with Kelly Kapic, professor of theological studies at Covenant College and author of several books, including  You're Only Human: How your Limits Reflect God's Design and Why That's Good News .   Dr. Kapic discusses the need for us to grow in celebrating our God-given limits. He talks with us about a common struggle experienced by pa...

In this episode we talk with Dr. Jonathan Pennington, a professor of New Testament at Southern Seminary and author of many books, including  Jesus the Great Philosopher: Rediscovering the Wisdom Needed for the Good Life . Dr. Pennington helps us understand the philosophy of the Christian way of life as taught by Jesus, and he gives us a framework for how to think about emotions through the lens of...

This episode features a new children's book written by Eliza Huie,  Count Yourself Calm: Five Simple Steps . This book is an illustrated step-by-step guide for taking big feelings to God and calming distress. Eliza shares her motivation for writing the book as well as resources it offers. Click HERE to learn more about the book and to order your copy. Click HERE to become a friend of the podc...