

Therapy and Theology
Lysa TerKeurst
Have you ever looked at a situation you’re facing in utter disbelief and thought, "How will I ever get over this?" Lysa TerKeurst understands. After years of heartbreak and emotional trauma, she realized it’s not about just getting over hard circumstances but learning how to work through what she has walked through. Now, she wants to help you do the same. That’s why Lysa teamed up with her personal, licensed professional counselor, Jim Cress, alongside the Director of Theological Research at Proverbs 31 Ministries, Dr. Joel Muddamalle, to bring you "Therapy & Theology." While Lysa, Jim and Joel do tackle some really hard topics, you’ll soon find they're just three friends having a great conversation and learning from each other along the way.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 24, 2025 • 30min
S9 E3 | Is Every Red Flag a Big Deal?
It's one thing to recognize red flags in your relationships. It's another thing to know what to do after that.In this episode, you'll learn:Five spectrums to consider when determining how serious a red flag is.Guidelines for determining if a particular red flag is something that needs to be confronted or self-managed.How to grow in awareness of red flags without getting overwhelmed or scared to get close to others.Links we mentioned in this episode:Download "Is This Normal? 15 Red Flags You May Be Missing in Your Relationships" by Lysa TerKeurst here.Sign up for a $10 webinar on September 4 at 7 p.m. ET with the Chosen team to learn about attachment styles and foster better communication with your children — no matter their age. Have a question for Lysa, Jim, or Joel? Leave us a message, and it could be answered on one of our future podcast episodes! Start here.Click here to download a transcript of this episode.Go deeper: Listen to "Red Flags We Shouldn’t Ignore in Relationships."Listen to "Here Is Your Permission To Set Boundaries" With Jim Cress.Watch "Difficult vs. Destructive Relationships."

Jul 17, 2025 • 39min
S9 E2 | Six Red Flags To Watch For in Any Relationship
Noticing red flags doesn’t make you critical — it makes you wise.In this episode, you'll learn:Six red flags to be aware of — whether you're building new relationships or evaluating existing ones.How to talk to someone about behavior that concerns you.How to best utilize godly discernment as you grow in self-awareness.Links we mentioned in this episode:Download "Is This Normal? 15 Red Flags You May Be Missing in Your Relationships" by Lysa TerKeurst here.Sign up for a $10 webinar on September 4 at 7 p.m. ET with the Chosen team to learn about attachment styles and foster better communication with your children — no matter their age. Have a question for Lysa, Jim, or Joel? Leave us a message, and it could be answered on one of our future podcast episodes! Start here.Click here to download a transcript of this episode.Go deeper: Listen to "Red Flags We Shouldn’t Ignore in Relationships."Listen to "Here Is Your Permission To Set Boundaries" With Jim Cress.Watch "Difficult vs. Destructive Relationships."

Jul 10, 2025 • 33min
S9 E1 | “Is This a Red Flag?” Here’s How You Can Know
Discover the ins and outs of spotting red flags in relationships, from subtle signs of distrust to understanding past influences. The conversation dives deep into the balance between vulnerability and safety, shedding light on the often overlooked impact of attachment styles. Listeners learn how to cultivate trust while navigating their own emotional landscapes. Plus, tips on fostering strong connections without sacrificing personal values are shared, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their relational skills.

Jul 3, 2025 • 1min
Season 9 | Red Flags in Relationships
Summertime is a season for sunshine, long days, and making memories with the people closest to us.But let’s be honest — more time together doesn’t always mean more connection. It could create more tension. And sometimes that’s because we can no longer ignore red flags that are now staring us in the face.Whether you’re single, dating, married, or navigating complicated family dynamics — we're diving into it all this summer.In Season 9, Lysa, Jim, and Joel will help you learn:What is a red flag?What are some red flags to be aware of?Is every red flag a big deal?How to respond to red flags you may notice in yourself.How to navigate red flags in family relationships.Helpful Links for This Season:Download "Is This Normal? 15 Red Flags You May Be Missing in Your Relationships" by Lysa TerKeurst here.Sign up for a $10 webinar on September 4 at 7 p.m. ET with the Chosen team to learn about attachment styles and foster better communication with your children — no matter their age. Have a question for Lysa, Jim, or Joel? Leave us a message, and it could be answered on one of our future podcast episodes! Start here.Click here to download a transcript of this episode.Want More on This Topic? Listen to "Red Flags We Shouldn’t Ignore in Relationships."Listen to "Here Is Your Permission To Set Boundaries" With Jim Cress.Watch "Difficult vs. Destructive Relationships."

May 8, 2025 • 45min
S8 E6 | Is Pornography Actually Harmful?
The discussion dives into the emotional and spiritual toll of pornography on individuals and relationships, emphasizing the need for open communication. Personal stories reveal the challenges faced by partners dealing with hidden behaviors. Listeners gain insights into effective healing strategies and the significance of therapy. The conversation also touches on the importance of maintaining the sanctity of relationships amidst a hypersexualized culture, highlighting the journey of recovery from addiction and infidelity.

May 1, 2025 • 44min
S8 E5 | Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, and How To Get Help
Addiction is a heartbreaking reality that weighs heavy on loved ones who are affected. But when you're navigating something this complex, how can you know the best way forward?In this episode, you will learn:What is considered an addiction and what the Bible says about the root of addiction.How to respond to the longings and desires you have without turning to substances.The complicated dynamics addiction creates within relationships.The hope and healing God has for you and how to allow Him to work in and through you.Helpful LinksHave a question for Lysa, Jim, or Joel? Leave us a message, and it could be answered on one of our future podcast episodes! Start here.Download “Trust Is a Track Record: 5 Scriptural Truths To Remember God’s Faithfulness" by Lysa TerKeurst here.Purchase "The Trust Journey Bundle" that includes I Want to Trust You, but I Don't by Lysa TerKeurst as well as The Trust Journey (a guided journal to use alongside I Want to Trust You, but I Don’t) here.We'd like to extend a special thank-you to our sponsor for this season, Compassion International. When you sponsor a child, you'll receive the “Proverbs: The Beginning of All Wisdom” study guide as our gift to you! Go to compassion.com/proverbs31 to get started!Click here to download a transcript of this episode.Want More on This Topic?Listen to "Is This Relationship Toxic?"Listen to "Difficult vs. Destructive Relationships with Leslie Vernick."Watch "When You Discover Someone Has Broken Your Trust."

Apr 24, 2025 • 36min
S8 E4 | The Truth About Narcissism and Borderline Personality Disorder
While we don't want to put labels on people, it is important to be aware of certain patterns of behavior. Because the more awareness we have, the better we'll be able to navigate situations we find ourselves in.In this episode, you will learn:The characteristics, signs, and symptoms of narcissism and borderline personality disorder.How to draw boundaries and protect yourself from dysfunctional or even dangerous relationships.The truth behind the age-old question, "Can people really change?"Helpful LinksHave a question for Lysa, Jim, or Joel? Leave us a message, and it could be answered on one of our future podcast episodes! Start here.Download “Trust Is a Track Record: 5 Scriptural Truths To Remember God’s Faithfulness" by Lysa TerKeurst here.Purchase "The Trust Journey Bundle" that includes I Want to Trust You, but I Don't by Lysa TerKeurst as well as The Trust Journey (a guided journal to use alongside I Want to Trust You, but I Don’t) here.We'd like to extend a special thank-you to our sponsor for this season, Compassion International. When you sponsor a child, you'll receive the “Proverbs: The Beginning of All Wisdom” study guide as our gift to you! Go to compassion.com/proverbs31 to get started!Click here to download a transcript of this episode.Want More on This Topic?Listen to "Narcissism ... What It Is and What It Isn’t."Listen to "Good Boundaries Lead to Better Relationships."Listen to Season 4 of Therapy & Theology called "Boundaries Boot Camp" with Jim Cress. Start by listening to "Here Is Your Permission To Set Boundaries."Watch "Realities of Life With a Narcissist."Read Good Boundaries and Goodbyes by Lysa TerKeurst.

Apr 17, 2025 • 42min
S8 E3 | Better Reactions Lead to Better Relationships
Have you ever wondered why you have different reactions with different people in your life? Maybe it's easy to respond to a friend with love and patience but difficult to respond to your spouse without getting angry.The truth is our character is revealed in how we react. Lysa TerKeurst puts it this way: "Our feelings are indicators, not dictators."In this episode, you’ll learn:What the four kinds of reaction types are and which one you are.How to work toward balance with your mind (thoughts), body and soul (feelings).Helpful LinksHave a question for Lysa, Jim or Joel? Leave us a message, and it could be answered on one of our future podcast episodes! Start here.Download “Trust Is a Track Record: 5 Scriptural Truths To Remember God’s Faithfulness" by Lysa TerKeurst here.Purchase "The Trust Journey Bundle" that includes I Want to Trust You, but I Don't by Lysa TerKeurst as well as The Trust Journey (a guided journal to use alongside I Want to Trust You, but I Don’t) here.We'd like to extend a special thank-you to our sponsor for this season, Compassion International. When you sponsor a child, you'll receive the “Proverbs: The Beginning of All Wisdom” study guide as our gift to you! Go to compassion.com/proverbs31 to get started!Download the "What's Your Reaction Type" Chart by Lysa TerKeurst.Click here to download a transcript of this episode.Want more on this topic? Listen to "Why Do I Feel So Angry?" here.Listen to "The Daily Cure for a Heavy Heart."Watch "I Don't Want To Be an Angry Person."

Apr 10, 2025 • 43min
S8 E2 | How To Deal With Emotional Abuse
Lysa TerKeurst says "emotional abuse is sometimes both the most overused and underused term" ... and we couldn't agree more.In this episode, you’ll learn:The hidden tactics of emotional abuse: gaslighting and love bombing.Why living in extremes in relationships are unhealthy and unsustainable.How to "take agency" in yourself and escape dysfunction.Helpful LinksHave a question for Lysa, Jim or Joel? Leave us a message, and it could be answered on one of our future podcast episodes! Start here.Download “Trust Is a Track Record: 5 Scriptural Truths To Remember God’s Faithfulness" by Lysa TerKeurst here.Purchase "The Trust Journey Bundle" that includes I Want to Trust You, but I Don't by Lysa TerKeurst as well as The Trust Journey (a guided journal to use alongside I Want to Trust You, but I Don’t) here.We'd like to extend a special thank-you to our sponsor for this season, Compassion International. When you sponsor a child, you'll receive the “Proverbs: The Beginning of All Wisdom” study guide as our gift to you! Go to compassion.com/proverbs31 to get started!Click here to download a transcript of this episode.Want more on this topic? Listen to "Good Boundaries Lead to Better Relationships."Listen to "The Part Emotional Abuse Plays in Silencing Women."Watch "Realities of Life With a Narcissist."

Apr 3, 2025 • 41min
S8 E1 | How To Escape the Victim Triangle for Good
You cannot be in a healthy, flourishing relationship with someone who refuses to take responsibility for their own issues. This is why the dynamics and roles of the Victim Triangle must be recognized.In this episode, you’ll learn:What the three roles of the Victim Triangle are.How to grow in self-awareness without labeling others.Where to insert boundaries if you find yourself in toxicity.Helpful LinksDownload “Trust Is a Track Record: 5 Scriptural Truths To Remember God’s Faithfulness" by Lysa TerKeurst here.Purchase "The Trust Journey Bundle" that includes I Want to Trust You, but I Don't by Lysa TerKeurst as well as The Trust Journey (a guided journal to use alongside I Want to Trust You, but I Don’t) here.We'd like to extend a special thank-you to our sponsor for this season — Compassion International. When you sponsor a child, you'll receive the study guide Proverbs: The Beginning of All Wisdom as our gift to you! Go to compassion.com/proverbs31 to get started!Click here to download a transcript of this episode.Want more on this topic? Listen to “Am I Trying To Control What Is Actually out of My Control?"Listen to “Here Is Your Permission To Set Boundaries" With Jim Cress.Watch “Narcissism ... What It Is and What It Isn’t."