The Christian Psychologist: Mental Health for 21st Century Christ Followers

Dive into the complexities of depressive rumination and its effects on mental wellness. Discover how metacognitive therapy offers a unique path to recovery, blending psychology with faith. Explore the connection between emotions like sadness and biblical narratives, leading to healing through divine presence. The guided meditation included helps listeners transform negative thoughts into affirmations of faith, creating a powerful shift in perspective.

ReferencesAPA Dictionary of Psychology. (n.d.). Mantra. https://dictionary.apa.org/mantraKnabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. InterVarsity Press.Knabb, J. J., & Vazquez, V. E. (2018). A randomized controlled trial of a 2-week internet-based contemplative prayer program for Christians with daily stress. Spirituality in Clinical Practice, 5(1), 37-53. https://doi.org/10.1037/scp0000154Oman, D. (2024). What is a mantra? Guidance for practitioners, researchers, and editors. American Psychologist. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0001368The Way of the Pilgrim. (2017). Magdalene Press.

Trauma can dramatically reshape beliefs and worldviews, particularly in a Christian context. The discussion dives into how experiences like divorce impact mental health and spirituality. There's a focus on the psychological effects of trauma on identity and how different worldviews inform morality and purpose. Listeners learn about the importance of anchoring in biblical truths to rebuild a coherent perspective after experiencing chaos and insecurity. This exploration offers hope for recovery and a renewed sense of self.

Explore the intriguing concept of metacognition, or 'thinking about thinking,' and its profound impact on mental and spiritual health. Discover how blending Christian principles with secular techniques can enhance self-awareness and manage thought patterns. Delve into practices like the Jesus Prayer that foster deep reflection and mindfulness. The conversation intertwines psychology with spirituality, offering listeners valuable insights into navigating their thoughts in a meaningful way.

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ReferencesAPA Dictionary of Psychology. (n.d.). Intrusive thoughts. https://dictionary.apa.org/intrusive-thoughtsAshton, S. M., Sambeth, A., & Quaedflieg, C. W. (2023). A mindful approach to controlling intrusive thoughts. Scientific Reports, 13(1), 10966.Berry, L. M., May, J., Andrade, J., & Kavanagh, D. (2010). Emotional and behavioral reaction to intrusive thoughts. Assessment, 17(1), 126-137.Clark, D. A., & Radomsky, A. S. (2014). Introduction: A global perspective on unwanted intrusive thoughts. Journal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders, 3(3), 265-268.Coniaris, A. (2004). Confronting and controlling thoughts: According to the fathers of the Philokalia. Light and Life Publishing, Co.Goodwin, T. (1999). The vanity of thoughts. Chapel Library.Harmless, W. (2004). Desert Christians: An introduction to the literature of early monasticism. Oxford University Press.Knabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. InterVarsity Press.Parkinson, L., & Rachman, S. (1981). Part II. The nature of intrusive thoughts. Advances in Behaviour Research and Therapy, 3(3), 101-110.Rachman, S. (2014). Global intrusive thoughts: A commentary. Journal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders, 3(3), 300-302.

ReferencesBeasley-Topliffe, K. (Ed.). (2003). The upper room dictionary of Christian spiritual formation. Upper Room Books.Dornyei, Z. (2022). The psychology of the fruit of the Spirit: The biblical portrayal of the Christlike character and its development. Zondervan Academic.Kenneson, P. (1999). Life on the vine: Cultivating the fruit of the Spirit in Christian community. InterVarsity Press.Knabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. InterVarsity Press.Lv, J., Liu, Q., Zeng, X., Oei, T. P., Liu, Y., Xu, K., & Liu, J. (2020). The effect of four Immeasurables meditations on depressive symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 76, 101814.Petrovic, J., Mettler, J., Cho, S., & Heath, N. L. (2024). The effects of loving-kindness interventions on positive and negative mental health outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 102433.Vazquez, V., Knabb, J., Lee-Johnson, C., & Hayes, K. (2022). Healing conversations on race: Four key practices from Scripture and psychology. IVP Academic.Vazquez, V., Knabb, J., Lima, A., Manhas, A., Soto Santana, D., Senger, S., & Sweet, K. (2024). Lectio divina for race-based traumatic stress among Black Christians. Journal of Psychology and Christianity, 43, 170-188.Wallace, B. (1999). The four immeasurables: Cultivating a boundless heart. Snow Lion Publications.Wright, C. (2017). Cultivating the fruit of the Spirit: Growing in Christlikeness. InterVarsity Press.Zeng, X., Chio, F. H., Oei, T. P., Leung, F. Y., & Liu, X. (2017). A systematic review of associations between amount of meditation practice and outcomes in interventions using the four immeasurables meditations. Frontiers in Psychology, 8, 141.

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The conversation dives into how a defined purpose significantly bolsters both mental health and spiritual well-being. It blends insights from psychology and theology, illustrating the transformative power of purpose in navigating life's challenges. The discussion also highlights the Christian perspective, emphasizing that genuine purpose is rooted in a deep relationship with God. Spiritual practices are presented as essential tools for nurturing this connection, ensuring that individuals can sustain their sense of purpose.

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