Healing Together: A Therapist's Call to the Church on Mental Health
We need pastors and leaders and people in ministry- and I'm going to say therapists too- to be able to be so vulnerable.
Ever thought about how the church could play a pivotal role in mental health? In this episode of 'Strong Tower Mental Health', Heidi Mortenson, a licensed marriage and family therapist, dives into this very question. She opens up about her own surprise at discovering the many wounded souls within church communities. Despite the common perception that churchgoers have it all together, they are just as vulnerable as anyone else.
Heidi believes that Christians should stand out by embracing authenticity and vulnerability, especially when it comes to mental health. She challenges church leaders to lead by example, encouraging them to embark on their own journeys of personal growth and transformation. By doing so, they create a welcoming environment for others to seek real freedom and healing.
Heidi draws on her expertise in brain science and therapy to offer practical advice on making healthy choices and fostering genuine change within church communities. This episode is a heartfelt call to action for the church to break the stigma surrounding mental health. Heidi emphasizes the importance of seeking help both within and outside the church, always putting God at the center of the healing process.
With references to biblical verses like Galatians 5:1 and John 8:38, she underscores the idea that true freedom comes from Christ. If you're curious about how faith and mental health can intertwine to create a supportive community, this episode is a must-listen. It's a blend of spiritual insight and psychological wisdom that aims to bridge the gap between mental health and the church.