Counseling Talk — A podcast by 9Marks

Deepak Reju, an expert in overcoming pornography challenges, joins Hayley Satrom, who shares insights on addiction's impact, and Garrett Kell, who highlights the emotional and spiritual battles involved. They discuss the importance of honesty and community support in healing, the complex motivations behind purity struggles, and how spiritual practices like prayer play a crucial role in recovery. The conversation is both insightful and encouraging, emphasizing the path to freedom from shame through faith and accountability.

David Powlison, a renowned expert on restoring joy to the sexually broken, joins for a candid discussion about the complexities of pornography. They unpack its cultural representations and moral implications, emphasizing the biblical lens on sin and sexuality. Practical strategies to combat temptation and foster accountability are highlighted, along with the crucial role of gratitude in shifting desires towards God's gifts. They also address the misconception that pornography affects only men, advocating for inclusive support within the church.

Stuart Scott shares insights on parenting wayward children, highlighting the challenges and complexities parents face. He emphasizes the importance of reflection, reconciliation, and ministering to parents in navigating this difficult journey with faith and humility.

Christians expect strict confidentiality when speaking of their own sins. But is that good for them?In this episode of Counseling Talk, Deepak Reju, Hayley Satrom, and Garrett Kell discuss how to shepherd secrets for gospel purposes.Related resources:Discipling by Mark DeverIs It Loving to Practice Church Discipline? Jonathan LeemanChurch Membership by Jonathan LeemanYou’re a Pastor, Not a Therapist by Jeremy Pierre

When members of the church suffer it provides a unique opportunity to show tangible love.In this episode of Counseling Talk, Garrett Kell shares with Deepak Reju and Hayley Satrom practical ways of how God’s people loved his family during their season of suffering.Related Resources: The Kell Story Part 1CaringBridge for Eden KellA Do-It-Yourself Marriage Retreat by Deepak RejuHeart Song CounselingThe Center for Biblical LivingFieldstone CounselingCross Care CounselingAnchored Hope

Pastors are not excluded from suffering. When trials come they uniquely become in need of their own pastoral care.In this episode of Counseling Talk, pastor Garrett Kell shares about trusting God amidst a season of his family’s suffering.Related Resources: CaringBridge for Eden Kell

How can Christians best assess the seriousness of someone's suicidal feelings? And how should we walk with those left behind after the suicide of a loved one?In this episode of Counseling Talk, Deepak, Garrett, and Hayley finish a mini-series on suicide.Resources Assessment of Suicide by Deepak Reju Funeral Message for L.J. who committed suicide by Pastor Bob Johnson Evaluating a Person with Suicidal Desires by Aaron Sironi and Mike Emlet  JBC vol. 26:2 (2012) I Just Want to Die: Replacing Suicidal Thoughts with Hope by David Powlision (NGP) Grieving a Suicide: Help for the Aftershock by David Powlison (NGP) Counseling Those Impacted by Suicide By Rachel Rosser When A Christian Dies of Suicide by Jeff Forrey Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy by Mark Vroegop

Navigating the challenging topic of suicide, this discussion provides essential strategies for developing safety plans and fostering accountability. It emphasizes the vital role of community support and honest communication during crises. The importance of boundaries in counseling is highlighted, as well as the integration of faith within mental health support. The speakers also explore the comforting power of scripture in addressing emotional pain, and how churches can enhance pastoral care for those in despair.

The hosts dive into the heavy topic of suicide, emphasizing the need for community support and understanding. They discuss the spiritual aspects of suicidal thoughts, referencing the struggles of biblical figures like Elijah. The importance of empathy in church discussions on mental health is highlighted, along with proactive strategies to build supportive networks. Practical tips, such as daily check-ins and fostering connections, are explored as essential tools for preventing suicide and offering compassion to those in distress.

The hosts discuss equipping church members for counseling, exploring the role of lay elders, finding hope in God's wisdom, balancing correction and encouragement, navigating counseling challenges, and share light-hearted moments with personal revelations.