We have come to our final episode of season one! As we reflect on our journey, we delve into the evolving expressions of care and counseling within the Church and discuss the crucial role of integration.Looking ahead, we have a shared vision for the Negev Institute: to provide more holistic programs, training, and resources to empower churches in responding to people's needs. We're excited about the prospect of broadening our conversations to encompass more diverse voices in the dialogue around Christian formation and mental health. As part of this vision, we're going to be exploring complex storytelling in our next season of Church Psychology. Whether you've been with us from the start or this is your first time tuning in, we invite you to be part of this enlightening journey as we navigate the fascinating intersection of faith, theology, and mental health.

Ever found yourself at a crossroads, unsure which path to take? Have you ever questioned how God's will fits into the messy, complicated puzzle of life's transitions? Join us as we peel back the layers of this topic, breaking down the complexities and inviting you into a faith-based dialogue about navigating change. Matt and I bring you on this journey, reminding ourselves and our listeners that God's will is not a static destination but an ever-evolving journey.Transitions, whether they are joyous or filled with grief, can be a tumultuous time. From the euphoria of new beginnings to the subtle melancholy of what we leave behind, our emotions can take us on a rollercoaster ride. During this episode, Matt and I delve into these emotions, discussing the intricacies of friendship-building outside structured environments and the loneliness that can creep in amidst change. We also delve into the coexistence of joy and grief during transitions and why it's crucial to acknowledge these feelings.Sharing personal narratives, we discuss the challenges and victories that come with such a transition, the importance of long-term relationships, and knowing when it's time to let go. Join us as we unpack the wisdom we've acquired on embracing change and taking risks. So head over to our website ChurchPsychology.org and connect with us further, access our free community library, and get your hands on some exclusive content. Let's navigate life's transitions together, one episode at a time.

Ever wondered why small talk, often considered trivial and mundane, can be so significant in establishing deep connections? Buckle up as my co-host, Matt and I, traverse the intriguing landscape of casual chatter, underpinned by an insightful article that captures its appeal and engagement in conversations. We shed light on how to leverage small talk, not just as an ice-breaker, but as a powerful tool to forge meaningful relationships. Taking cues from the wisdom of CS Lewis, we explore humility as the cornerstone of Christian life and its role in fostering heartfelt conversations. By sprinkling empathy and curiosity into chats, we demonstrate how it's possible to build significant relationships without the crutch of shared interests. We also reveal the underplayed potency of ‘mind-reading’ in conversations - an art that makes others feel acknowledged and understood. As we dissect these elements, it becomes evident that small talk holds the potential to be a game-changer in our interactions. So, join us and learn to embrace the transformative power vested in everyday conversations.Show Notes:https://apple.news/Ayem5YVoMQE2jk2m-SMYvjQhttps://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Think-Faster-Talk-Smarter/Matt-Abrahams/9781668010303https://www.themuse.com/advice/what-is-empathetic-listening-definition-examples1 Peter 3:8 ESVFinally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.Romans 12:15 ESVRejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.Galatians 6:2 ESV Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

Ever feel like you're running on empty? That's what Matt and I are ironing out today on Church Psychology, shining a light on the enigmatic beast known as fatigue. It's not just about falling asleep at your desk or needing that extra shot of espresso in your latte; we're talking the full spectrum - physical, emotional, and even spiritual fatigue. Let's face it, in this fast-paced world it's easy to fall into the trap of distraction or 'vegging out' as an escape, skewing our understanding of what real rest looks like. It's a pervasive issue, one that even sneaks its way into the pulpit, creating a unique form of pastoral fatigue. Intriguing, isn't it? We're discussing why it's so hard for many, especially pastors, to not only recognize but also admit their fatigue. It's a conversation that's long overdue. But don't think we're leaving you in the lurch! We're also exploring the balance of carrying your own burdens and the necessity of sharing them, tying it all together with insights from scripture. So, come join us on this journey, there's a seat saved just for you. Together, let's redefine what it means to rest, recharge, and handle fatigue in a healthy manner.Show Notes:The work of Dr. Curt Thompson - https://curtthompsonmd.com/

Ever wondered about the power of your words? Are you curious about how your language choices affect your relationships? This episode is a must-listen for you! We take a deep dive into the complex world of language and communication, particularly focusing on the Christian perspective on cussing, swearing, and profanity. Drawing from our personal experiences and the teachings of Scripture, we explore the intriguing paradox of these 'spicy' words and their impact. We also broaden the scope of our discussions to go beyond mere cussing. By referencing Ephesians 4:29, we touch on how words - even those not typically seen as profane - can either edify or harm depending on their usage. The importance of context, nuances of language, and authenticity in our communication are also highlighted, especially in sensitive areas like Christian-based sex therapy and guiding children on appropriate language use. The conversation wouldn't be complete without discussing parenting, and we dare to tackle the challenging aspect of teaching our children to express themselves freely yet within certain boundaries. Through our discussions, we underline the significance of validation and understanding the context and intent of the speaker. As our words can either build or break, we advocate for a mindful approach to our language choices. So, strap in for a thrilling exploration of language, communication, and their implications on our Christian journey.Show Notes:Ephesians 4:29 - "No foul language is to come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear."Ephesians 5:4 - "Coarse and foolish talking or crude joking are not suitable, but rather giving thanks."Colossians 3:8 - "But now you must also put away all the following: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and filthy language from your mouth."Matthew 15:18-19 - "But what comes out of the mouth comes from the heart, and this defiles a man. For from the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, sexual immoralities, thefts, false testimonies, blasphemies."James 3:10 - "Praising and cursing come out of the same mouth. My brothers, these things should not be this way."

Ever wondered about the fundamental roles we assign in storytelling and how they shape our understanding of the world? My co-host Matt and I tackle this intriguing topic, discussing how we tend to oversimplify characters as either heroes, victims, or villains. We dive into the subtleties often missed in these narratives and the harm that can occur when we force complex personalities into these basic categories. Biblical stories, with their nuanced character portrayals, serve as a reference in our discussion, and we connect these insights with cognitive behavioral therapy.We journey into the realm of heroism, discussing the works of Joseph Campbell and Carl Jung. Their theories on the hero's journey have greatly influenced our modern Western perception of heroes – but what happens when we simplify and exaggerate these stories? We also mine the research of Malcolm Gladwell and Gordon Allport before circling back to the work of mental health professionals and their role in unfolding narratives. In the final part of our conversation, we examine how trauma impacts memory and storytelling. We discuss 'splitting,' a defense mechanism that leads individuals to view issues in stark black-and-white terms, and how this can sometimes lead to personality disorders. We further explore how the Bible's rich storytelling had a profound impact during its time and reflect on how Christian triumphalism can often lead to a simplified narrative of one's story. So, join us as we appreciate the power of nuance in storytelling and the deeper understanding of complexity and growth it provides. Be sure to connect with our free community library at churchpsychology.org for more insights through webinars, articles, and event notifications.Show NotesAllport, G. W., & Postman, L. (1947). The Psychology of Rumor. Russell & Russell.Gladwell, M. (2000). The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference. Little, Brown and Company.Haven, K. (2014). Story smart: Using the science of story to persuade, influence, inspire, and teach. Bloomsbury Publishing USA.Kernberg, O. F. (1984). Severe personality disorders: Psychotherapeutic strategies. Yale University Press.Paris, J. (2007). The nature of borderline personality disorder: Multiple dimensions, multiple symptoms, but one category. Journal of Personality Disorders, 21(5), 457–473. https://doi.org/10.1521/pedi.2007.21.5.457Ronningstam, E. (2016). Pathological narcissism and narcissistic personality disorder: Recent research and clinical implications. Current Behavioral Neuroscience Reports, 3, 34-42.

How often do you reflect on the concept of family and its transformation in our society? Join Matt and me as we unpack the intricate layers of the contemporary family unit, specifically the nuclear family. Drawing from our personal experiences, we examine the historical context of the nuclear family and its normalization in American and biblical cultures. We also navigate through the thought-provoking points raised in 'The Nuclear Family Was a Mistake', an insightful article by David Brooks from the Atlantic.What happens when the cost of living changes and starts challenging the sustainability of the nuclear family model? As we pivot our conversation, we uncover the impact of the current economic landscape on the traditional family structure. We delve into the contrast between extended family dynamics and nuclear family dynamics, the role of our family of origin in shaping our identities, and the rise of outsourcing traditional resource needs such as childcare and meals. Our dialogue takes a turn towards the intersection of families and church life, revealing a fascinating exploration of the contrasting dynamics. We probe into the value system of the nuclear family and the relative stability extended families can offer children. From analyzing the potential of the church to be intrusive or disengaged to balancing the need for blood ties and supportive relationships, our discussion covers it all. As we wrap up, we shine a spotlight on the importance of interdependence in church communities and how individualistic and consumeristic attitudes may influence the perception of church members. Tune in for this enlightening discourse on the nuclear family in America.Show Notes:David Brooks - 'The Nuclear Family Was a Mistake' - https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2020/03/the-nuclear-family-was-a-mistake/605536/ Ruggles, S. (2015). Patriarchy, power, and pay: The transformation of American families, 1800–2015. Demography, 52(6), 1797-1823. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5068828/?fbclid=IwAR3NaNYulnkf7VBmqw2pQ7CoASKyTtZJBrDk7I4nqor3SeRBMBZV8PRLNKkTheology in the Raw. (2023, February 9). Does the Old Testament Dehumanize Women? Dr. Sandy Richter (Exiles 22 Talk + Q & A) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjnMM36QUjASexual Violence Against Women and the OT Law: https://www.biola.edu/blogs/think-biblically/2020/sexual-violence-against-women

Are we overusing and misrepresenting the term 'trauma'? In the latest episode of Church Psychology, we take a hard look at this pressing issue. We uncover how our society’s rampant misuse of 'trauma' often blurs its distinction from 'distress', diluting its profound meaning and leading to a fatigue that might potentially silence genuine cases of trauma. We want to change this narrative and offer a deeper understanding of trauma, not just as an event, but as an ongoing response to an experience.Trauma is insidious; it doesn't just affect us psychologically but also leaves its imprints on our physiology. We break down the science of trauma and its effects, discussing how it disrupts our brain function, making it difficult to think rationally when our emotions are in turmoil. We also highlight how trauma can be carried across generations, often surfacing in ways that are not easily identifiable. How does our brain's amygdala play a role in this? And can we harness this connection to break free from distressing patterns? Join us as we weave through these intriguing questions in our discussion.We believe in the power of connection, compassion, and contribution as potent tools to address trauma. We also discuss the work of Bill O'Hanlon in post-traumatic growth, throwing light on the concept of victimhood culture and its interplay with the term 'trauma'. In the backdrop of all this, we delve into scripture, drawing parallels from the lives of Joseph and other biblical figures, cementing our understanding of trauma from a psychological and biblical perspective. Together, let's redefine the way we understand and address trauma. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on Church Psychology.Show Notes:Bessel van der Kolk on Trauma - https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748Elliott Connie - https://www.amazon.com/Solution-Focused-Brief-Therapy-Diamond/dp/1401970494Bill O'Hanlon course on trauma - https://psychmaven.teachable.com/p/trauma-without-dramaBill O'Hanlon's book on trauma - https://www.amazon.com/Quick-Steps-Resolving-Trauma-OHanlon/dp/0393706516Street Hope TN - https://streethopetn.org/

Are you ready for a  journey through time? Join us, Dr. David Hall and Matt Scheuneman, as we decipher the complex constructs of generational cohorts. We've cracked open history books and analysed social shifts and technological impacts to present a comprehensive view of distinct generational experiences right from the 'greatest generation' to the upcoming Generation Alpha.Did you know the socio-cultural changes, historical events, and technological advancements of an era significantly shape a generation? We've dug into these aspects and more for each generational cohort. We draw insights from psychologist researcher Jean Twenge's enlightening books, IGen, and Generations, to give you an understanding of the 20th-century generations. As we discuss the fading influence of the baby boomers with their approaching retirement, we unravel the desire of younger generations for wisdom and insight from them. We also talk about how churches can play a significant role in fostering this intergenerational interaction.Our discussion wouldn't be complete without mentioning the profound impact of technology. As we stand at the cusp of Generation Alpha, the role of technology in shaping communication and interactions is undeniable. This calls for translators who can bridge this generational gap, a role that's vital in understanding and appreciating the richness of these generational differences. So tune in, as we take you on an intriguing exploration through generational cohorts and their significant cultural shifts.Show Notes:Jean Twenge - IGen - https://www.amazon.com/iGen-Super-Connected-Rebellious-Happy-Adulthood/dp/1501152017/ref=asc_df_1501152017/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312425492373&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14530321969455479858&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9013454&hvtargid=pla-526884010012&psc=1Jean Twenge - Generations - https://www.amazon.com/Generations-Differences-Millennials-Silents_and-Americas/dp/1982181613/ref=sr_1_1?crid=31TIWEOQ0QNSY&keywords=jean+twenge+generations&qid=1695319361&s=books&sprefix=jean+twenge+generations%2Cstripbooks%2C86&sr=1-1Psalm 145:4 - One generation commends your works to another;    they tell of your mighty acts.https://www.negev.institute/courses/social-media-youth-development

Have you ever wondered how being nice is remarkably different from being kind? Well, today's enlightening discussion will unravel this intriguing mystery. We venture into the paradoxical world where being kind is often mistaken for just being nice, especially in the Christian faith. We dissect the cultural expectations and the pitfalls of considering niceness as an epitome of Christian virtue, while also exploring regional nuances between East Tennessee and the Northeast.In the journey towards unmasking kindness, we'll illuminate the importance of clarity and its pivotal role. As we turn the pages of Galatians and Corinthians, we'll bring to light how clarity paves the way for kindness and how it can be a guiding light for business leaders to keep their workforce mission-focused.As we delve deeper, we'll explore the dynamics of niceness and true kindness in our roles as mental health practitioners. We'll share insights on how to challenge clients in a manner that springs from kindness, even if it doesn't seem 'nice' at the moment. We'll also discuss how kindness plays a vital role in strengthening church relationships. So let’s embark together on this journey of discovery where we redefine the notions of being nice and kind. Prepare to challenge your preconceptions and embrace a new perspective on the significance of kindness over niceness.Show Notes:Notes on Chrēstotēs (Kray-Stoe-Ace)https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g5544/kjv/tr/0-1/ 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.  -- Galatians 5:22 (CSB)4 Love is patient, love is kind. Love does not envy, is not boastful, is not arrogant, 5 is not rude, is not self-seeking, is not irritable, and does not keep a record of wrongs. -- 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 (CSB)

We delve into the transformative concept of anti-fragility, inspired by Nassim Taleb’s insightful book "Anti-Fragile". From the role of hardship in fostering resilience to the paradoxical impact of societal norms on parenting, this episode is a deep exploration into understanding how distress can be a catalyst for growth. Drawing upon other enlightening works like "Coddling of the American Mind" by Jonathan Haidt and Greg Lukianoff, we dissect the dynamics of mental health, individual growth, and resilience. Picture a world where challenges are no longer daunting but stepping stones for growth. This compelling discussion takes us through how our societal norms have conditioned us to protect our children from hardships. We examine the influence of technology in parenting, highlighting the shift from the simpler times of dumbphones to the present era of smartphones. This thought-provoking conversation might prompt you to reconsider your parenting method, relationship with technology, and perception of distress.As we navigate this enlightening journey, we intertwine the elements of faith and spirituality, underscoring the power of struggles as a source of strength. We contemplate harnessing our experiences to instigate positive alterations in our lives and relationships. Whether it's about overcoming obsessive anxiety or rebuilding a relationship after an offense, anti-fragility offers a fresh perspective. So brace yourself for an intriguing discussion that could revolutionize your understanding of distress, growth, and mental health.Show Notes:https://www.amazon.com/Solution-Focused-Brief-Therapy-Diamond/dp/1401970494https://www.amazon.com/Antifragile-Things-That-Disorder-Incerto/dp/0812979680?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DERhttps://www.amazon.com/Coddling-American-Mind-Intentions-Generation/dp/0735224919/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3VNZOQ1FVM99H&keywords=the+coddling+of+the+american+mind+paperback&qid=1694190055&s=books&sprefix=coddling%2Cstripbooks%2C105&sr=1-1James 1:2-4: "Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing."Romans 5:3-4: "And not only that, but we also rejoice in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance, endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope."Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths."Isaiah 55:8-9 "'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not My ways.' This is the LORD’s declaration. 'For as heaven is higher than earth, so My ways are higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.'"

Ever wondered how to maintain authenticity while setting the appropriate boundaries in your relationships? We have just the discussion for you. I'm Dr. David Hall and with me is Matt Scheuneman. Join us as we discuss the intricate balance between being open, genuine and still keeping boundaries in relationships. We take you through the concept of three concentric circles of openness and how they depend on safety and trust. We also highlight the challenges of being authentic and wisely protecting our vulnerabilities.Fascinatingly, we examine Jesus' circles of openness, providing you with an impactful approach to nurturing healthier relationships.As we wrap up our enlightening conversation, we tackle the delicate subject of intimacy and expectations. Uncover the fine line between being true to yourself and oversharing, and how automatic negative thoughts can affect your relationships and the way you perceive the world around you. We emphasize the significance of reconciliation and forgiveness in intimate relationships and how you can find freedom when reconciliation isn't possible. So, ready to unearth new insights and strategies to better manage your relationships? Join us on this journey towards healthier, more authentic connections.

Are you living a life that's merely happy or one that's contented? Strap in for an intriguing journey as we explore the profound concept of contentment. We strive to go beyond the surface-level chase of happiness, and delve into the search for a deep-rooted sense of peace and satisfaction. We dissect the often misunderstood relationship between pain and happiness, and how not all distress calls for a change in our lives. We provoke you to examine how happiness could be just an attempt to avoid the inevitable pain, and whether that's what we're really meant to do.We also transcend cultural borders and language barriers, shining a spotlight on non-English vernaculars that embody unique perspectives on contentment. In particular, we unravel the Finnish ethos of 'Sisu' and Sweden's 'Lagom', and how they encapsulate distinctive ways of finding joy and contentment. Toward the end, we delve into the power of purpose, that transcends our personal desires and yearnings. We contemplate the Christian paradox of seeking sacrifice and glory for God, and how this extraordinary pursuit can lead to a life of contentment. We also shed light on the complex links between depression, trauma, and our emotional state. In essence, we urge you to reflect on your 'bigger why', your ultimate purpose, and how it can set you on the path to finding a more profound sense of contentment. Buckle up for this eye-opening discussion, and set foot on your journey to a life of deeper contentment.Show Notes:Philippians 4:11-12 (HCSB) -Holman Christian Standard Bible "I don't say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well-fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need." Hebrews 13:5 (HCSB) "Your life should be free from the love of money. Be satisfied with what you have, for He Himself has said, I will never leave you or abandon you."Sisu - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3oayAB3_XYLagom - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhclKSeK_ZY

What if the constant scroll of social media is shaping your mental health more than you realize? What if the very tools designed to connect us are wreaking havoc on our relationships, our self-image, and our mental well-being? This episode explores the murky waters of social media and its intriguing yet alarming impact on our mental health. Drawing from the recent American Psychological Association's advisory, we unpack the multifaceted issues surrounding this modern phenomenon. From our personal experiences to wider societal implications, our conversation aims to decode the complexities without any bias.The internet's public access since 1995, the dot-com boom, and the introduction of the like button and retweet in 2011 have undoubtedly revolutionized our world. Yet, the rapid, exponential growth of social media since 2007, brings along a mixed bag of impacts. This episode examines the good, the bad, and the ugly - shedding light on the behind-the-scenes psychological tactics that create an addictive environment. But it’s not all doom and gloom; we also discuss the positive influence of social media in our pandemic-stricken world.The role of parents and youth workers in helping young people understand and navigate the psychological effects of social media is crucial. The APA's guidelines for social media literacy offer a roadmap, but following it and enforcing boundaries can be daunting. Tune in as we discuss ways to break the vicious cycle of seeking dopamine hits from social media, the importance of ongoing conversations with teenagers, and the need for regular social media breaks. This enlightening conversation promises to help you, and your children, navigate the digital universe with wisdom and discernment. Don't miss out!Show Notes:- https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/health-advisory-adolescent-social-media-use- https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/sg-youth-mental-health-social-media-advisory.pdf- Jonathan Haidt - https://www.amazon.com/Coddling-of-American-Mind-audiobook/dp/B079P7PDWB/ref=sr_1_1?crid=391YHSRV5FDV2&keywords=jonathan+haidt+the+coddling+of+the+american+mind&qid=1692305709&sprefix=jonathan+ha%2Caps%2C109&sr=8-1- Scripture reflection: "8 Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable ​— ​if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy ​— ​dwell on these things. 9 Do what you have learned and received and heard from me, and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you. -- Philippians 4:8-9 (CSB)"

What if your anxiety could speak? What would it say about the world not being as it should be? In our conversation, we wrestle with these questions, unearthing the complexity of anxiety, its neutrality, and its roots. We probe how modern culture has influenced our understanding of this emotion and explore the diverse biblical perspectives on worry.From the nuances of feeling anxious to the fresh approach to dealing with it, we dive into the Greek translation of Scripture, illuminating a deeper understanding of God's commands. A spotlight is thrown on Philippians 4 and its call to avoid distractions. We also engage in a profound discussion on the differences between discipline and suppression, drawing insights from Jesus' experience in the Garden of Gethsemane. We emphasize the importance of presenting our emotions to God, regardless of the outcome.The episode concludes with practical strategies for managing anxiety.  The power of gratitude and the significance of seeking support are discussed. Through God's word, we learn to see ourselves in relation to Him and gain insights from Matthew 6. The closing reflection centers on finding inner peace amid distress, the role of Christian faith in bestowing it, and the importance of accepting our emotions without judgment. Get ready to embark on this enlightening journey to understand anxiety.Notes:- Philippians 4:6-7 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=philippians+4%3A6-7&version=CSB- Matthew 6:25-34 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew+6%3A25-34&version=CSB- Mark 14:32-34 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=mark+14%3A32-34&version=CSB- Philippians 2:25-26 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=philippians+2%3A25-26&version=CSBUnder Pressure Article - https://negev.ck.page/under-pressure

Ever pondered why a firm believer in the transformative power of faith might need therapy? Is it a sign of wavering faith or a tool to bolster spiritual growth? This episode of Church Psychology unveils just that, shedding light on the pivotal role therapy could play in a Christian's life, while dispelling related misconceptions.We take a journey back in time, traversing the historical and social contexts of psychotherapy, and ponder if our ancestors required such intervention. We also discuss how therapy, a discipline hardly a century old, has evolved to become an essential tool in the modern-day Christian's life. Touching upon the role of psychology in Christian counseling, we explore biblical instances where wisdom was sought beyond scripture, and emphasize on subordinating worldly understanding to the scriptures.Diving deeper, we consider the symbiotic relationship between secular wisdom and biblical truths and how this potent combination promotes healing. We explore the significance of counsel and community in spiritual growth and discuss how therapy can provide insights into life processes that are often overlooked. Navigating the delicate balance of power dynamics, we delve into the essence of therapy - seeking secular or faith-informed wisdom, not just an affirmation of our existing beliefs. So, tune in, for this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone grappling with the relevance of therapy in a Christian's life.Show Notes:Genesis 30 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+30%3A37-43&version=ESVExodus 18 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus+18&version=ESVGalatians 5:22 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians+5%3A22&version=ESVMatthew 20 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+20%3A25-28&version=ESV2 Timothy 4:3 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+timothy+4%3A3&version=ESV

Ever thought about the  intersection of mental health and spiritual formation? We dive deep into this topic with Matt, who transitioned from community mental health, to worship leading, to pastoring and counseling. His unique journey presents a host of insights that challenge typical perceptions about the roles of therapists and pastors, and how they navigate the delicate balance of spiritual healing and guidance.We examine the concept of 'performative Christianity' and its impact on our interactions. This episode explores the subtle yet profound differences between the roles of a pastor and a counselor, tackling the important themes of objectivity and intimacy in both professions. We delve into the vision of formation and how it plays a crucial role in shaping the pastoral and Christian counseling profession.In our final discussion, we unpack the current trends on counseling and church integration, reflecting on the fears pastors may have in touching the mental health world. We talk about the longing to bring the tools of the profession down to the church level. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the overlap of mental health and spiritual formation, providing a fresh perspective on how these intersecting worlds shape our understanding of pastoral and Christian counseling. Tune in for an enlightening conversation and prepare to see the roles of pastors and counselors in a new light.

What really happens when we use spirituality to avoid confronting our unresolved emotional issues? Dr. David Hall and I, Matt Scheuneman, bring you an insightful discussion on spiritual bypass, a phenomenon prevalent in church culture, and its implications in our lives and relationships.John Wellwood's concept of spiritual bypass forms the basis of our conversation as we delve into the complexities of navigating spirituality, mental health, and the delicate balance between spiritual faith and practical action. We're pressing into how scripture can be misused as a spiritual bypass in therapy, the dangers of cherry-picking scripture to fit our narratives, and the potential consequences of avoiding challenges. Join us for a challenging yet enlightening journey into the intersection of black holes, theology and the repercussions of spiritual bypassing.We challenge the oft-heard statement “if you got Jesus, you don't need therapy” and how it can feed into the phenomenon of spiritual bypass. But don't worry - it's not all doom and gloom! We'll share our insights on navigating tough conversations with grace and humility, the importance of building trust, and how our failures can glorify God. You won't want to miss this thought-provoking exploration of spirituality, mental health, and the balance between faith and action.Show Notes:John Welwood - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiritual_bypass#:~:text=Welwood%20coined%20the%20equally%20well,(Welwood%202000%3A64).CS Lewis - Perelandra - https://www.amazon.com/Perelandra-Space-Trilogy-Book-2/dp/074323491XIsaiah 1:15-16 - "When you spread out your hands in prayer, I hide my eyes from you; even when you offer many prayers, I am not listening. Your hands are full of blood! Wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight; stop doing wrong."Galatians 5:22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-controlMatthew 7:17 - "So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit."Tipping Point - Malcolm Gladwell - https://www.amazon.com/Tipping-Point-Little-Things-Difference/dp/0316346624With the Perrys - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/with-the-perrys/id1458672189

Struggling to balance personal independence and dependence? You're not alone. Matt and Dr. David Hall are exploring the tensions that exist between these two extremes, their impact on our spiritual connection, and how our culture and the church often swing between them. This dynamic tension isn't just a linear journey, but rather a constant negotiation and reshaping of our lives. We'll take a leaves out of the work of the psychiartist, Milton Erickson,  and reflect on the moment when you realize that you can no longer become an Olympic swimmer (even if you were not trying to in the first place) We can see how the tensions of dependence and independence manifest in different stages of life.Parenting is a tightrope act, walking the fine line between rebellious teenage independence and parental anxiety. We discuss how allowing a teenage brain - which is still developing until the mid-to-late 20s - to make certain decisions can have far-reaching implications. This struggle between dependence and independence within families can sometimes lead to individuals being valued for what they can do, rather than who they truly are. We'll also shed light on the concept of fidelity and its influence on identity and role confusion.Join us as we delve into these complex issues and offer practical guidance for personal growth and spiritual maturation. Together, let's navigate the intricate path of dependence and independence in our personal lives and church experience.Show Notes:Anthony Bradley Episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-churches-should-respond-to-the-boy-crisis/id1560890129?i=1000599515383

How does the tension between victimization and agency play out in our churches and faith communities? Join us, Matt Scheuneman and Dr David Hall, as we unravel this timely and relevant discussion. We dig into the prevalent narratives of trauma, abuse, and bullying, and challenge the mindset of victimization, offering instead a fresh perspective on the concept of agency and its impact on our mental health and faith.Venturing further, we probe the implications of control and how it can seed feelings of depression, anxiety, and fear. Let's journey together through scriptural teachings to understand how God interacts with our choices and their consequences. We'll explore how our agency can be a force for positive change and discuss the transformative power of abiding in Christ amidst circumstantial pain. This is more than just a conversation about victimhood and agency, it's about finding hope and navigating life’s challenges through faith. So, are you ready to see your faith in a new light?Show Notes:SBC Article on abusehttps://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/faqs-sexual-abuse-southern-baptist/Rise and Fall of Mars Hill Podcast linkhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill/id1569401963Man’s Search for Meaning - Franklhttps://www.amazon.com/Mans-Search-Meaning-Viktor-Frankl-ebook/dp/B009U9S6FIFrancis Shaffer bookhttps://www.amazon.com/He-There-Not-Silent/dp/084231413XFully Alive - Crabbhttps://www.amazon.com/Fully-Alive-Biblical-Vision-Stereotypes/dp/0801015332/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1678114478&sr=1-1Phil 2:5https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%202%3A5-11&version=ESVBill O’Hanlen training - Resolving Trauma Without the Dramahttps://psychmaven.teachable.com/p/trauma-without-drama