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54. What is Selective Mutisim? with Nanette Holloway

SELECTIVE MUTISM – social anxiety Nanette Holloway shares her experience with selective mutism, a condition typically found in childhood and occasionally continuing into adulthood. The Cleveland Clinic describes selective mutism (SM) as “a mental health condition where you can’t talk in certain situations because of fear or anxiety. It usually affects young children, but it […]

53. The Imagine Project with Brant Winn

“Imagine” Brant Winn was so impressed with a workshop he attended by Dianne Mahoney that he has now become an active proponent of The Imagine Project, an approach to mental wellness through “imagining” the possibilities in a seven step approach to healing. The imagine project was created by Dianne Mahoney. This nonprofit organization provides free […]

51. Heartache, Grief, and God with Judith Vander Wege

Judith Vander Wege has been a Christian freelance writer for 44 years. On today’s episode, she shares about the heartache she’s endured over her life and how God has walked with her through the pain and grief. Judith shared insights about grief from her book, Annalisa’s Journey through Grief.  See the book on Amazon. suggestions for […]

50. A Christian Approach to Mental Health with Warren Kinghorn

WAYFARING: A CHRISTIAN APPROACH TO MENTAL HEALTH Warren Kinghorn is a psychiatrist, theological ethicist, and author. But more than anything, he is a man of God who desires to keep faith at the forefront in all his endeavors. In this interview, Dr. Kinghorn shares personal thoughts and insights from his book, Wayfaring: A Christian Approach […]

49. Surviving Suicide with Chris Morris

Caroline’s guest, Chris Morris, has a story to tell. In episode 48, he shares important tips for finding a therapist based on his challenging experience. Additionally, Chris talks about the importance of having a support network for accountability. Episode 49 goes deeper into Chris’s story as he shares about his suicide attempt. This important episode […]

48. Finding a Therapist and Support with Chris Morris

Caroline’s guest, Chris Morris, has a story to tell. In episode 48, he shares important tips for finding a therapist based on his challenging experience. Additionally, Chris talks about the importance of having a support network for accountability. Episode 49 goes deeper into Chris’s story as he shares about his suicide attempt. This important episode […]

47. Fall Episodes are On Their Way!

Here are the September-October episode topics and guests for Mental Health & Faith: A Closer Look. 9/3/24 – Resilient & Redeemed: Therapy with Chris Morris 9/10/24 – Resilient & Redeemed: Suicide with Chris Morris 9/17/24 – Wayfaring with Dr. Warren Kinghorn 9/24/24 – Overcoming Grief with Judy Vander Wege 10/1/24 – The Mouth and Mental […]

46. Trauma & Trauma Informed Care with Roxanne Pendleton

Roxanne Pendleton shares information about trauma and trauma informed care (TIC) from a professional and personal perspective. She has lived through trauma and turned that experience into an opportunity to help others. Roxanne works as a trauma consultant at the Center for Trauma Informed Innovation at University Health-Behavioral Health (formerly Truman Behavioral Health). Roxanne is […]

45. Jane Shares Her Story

Jane Alexander bravely shares her experience with mental illness and trauma in a podcast originally posted in March of 2020. As she shares you will gain insight into what it’s like to live with a mental illness. You’ll be comforted that you are not alone in your mental health challenges. And, you’ll be reminded that […]

44. Mental Health & Faith (Feb 12, 2019)

Today’s episode is a replay of Caroline’s first episode on the Mental Health & Faith podcast. The information shared is still relevant and you will enjoy listening to insights related to mental health, faith, and recovery. Caroline’s guest is her sister, Terri Cooley-Bennett, a licensed clinical social worker who has worked in the field for […]

43. Writing for Recovery_Write Your Story!

The Mental Health and Faith: A Closer Look program presents a series of episodes on Writing Your Way to Recovery. Throughout June 2024, Caroline shares content originally created for presentations at two different mental health conferences in Missouri. Today’s episode explores how journaling can be beneficial in working your way to healing. Write Your StorY […]

42. Writing for Recovery: Journaling

The Mental Health and Faith: A Closer Look program presents a series of episodes on Writing Your Way to Recovery. Throughout June 2024, Caroline shares content originally created for presentations at two different mental health conferences in Missouri. Today’s episode explores how journaling can be beneficial in working your way to healing. Journaling Thanks to […]

41. Writing for Recovery: Poetry

The Mental Health and Faith: A Closer Look program presents a series of episodes on Writing Your Way to Recovery. Throughout June 2024, Caroline shares content originally created for presentations at two different mental health conferences in Missouri. Today’s episode explores how poetry can be beneficial in exploring emotions and how to express those feelings […]

40. The Importance of Self-Care

Self-care = taking care of self! Sounds easy, right? Unfortunately, many people are over-committed, have too many activities on the calendar, and prioritize their careers over their well-being. But taking time out everyday for yourself is essential for holistic health. Mindfulness You can find free resources on mindfulness on the following websites] Focus on the […]

39. Are you Anxious? So am I!

Let’s have an honest conversation. My husband lost his job last year and at one point we thought we’d lose our house. Some close relatives have experienced significant health issues. I didn’t receive the promotion that I thought was guaranteed. I had a disagreement with a friend that has broken our relationship. My new insurance […]

34. New Heavens and New Earth

New Heavens and a New Earth The fourth and final episode in the All Things New series looks at three passages in Scripture — the only three passages — that use the phrase “new heavens and new earth.” Isaiah 65:17-19 God speaks to his people through the prophet Isaiah to give them a glimmer of […]

31. All Things New – New Life

All Things New A New Life What does having new life have to due with mental health? Our spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental health are all connected. It is my hope that as we explore the idea of having new life that we will experience hope, joy, and peace. When we experience these positive outlooks […]

29. Recognizing Victory

Recognizing Victory In this final episode of a three-part series, Caroline concludes sharing the Cycle of Recovery. In reflecting on her recovery journey, Caroline recognized the need to find hope, experience transformation, and recognize victory. Listen as she recaps the entire cycle with an emphasis on victory. The horse is prepared for the day of […]

28. Experience Transformation

This episode is a replay of Episode 18 – The Cycle of Recovery (Part 2) – Transformation, originally published in April 2023. Experience Transformation In this second episode of a three-part series, Caroline continues sharing the Cycle of Recovery. In reflecting on her recovery journey, Caroline recognized the need to find hope, experience transformation, and […]

27. It All Begins With Hope

This episode is a replay of Episode 18 – The Cycle of Recovery (Part 1) – Hope, originally published in April 2023. Find Hope In this first episode of a three-part series, Caroline introduces the Cycle of Recovery. In reflecting on her recovery journey, Caroline recognized the need to find hope, experience transformation, and recognize […]

26. Communication & Care with Patricia Plumb

Caroline’s guest this week is Patricia Plumb, an educator, counselor, leadership consultant, and author. She has worn many hats but her focus these days is with The Shepherd’s Touch Ministry, a ministry she founded in 2018. On today’s episode, Patricia shares a couple of stories that reveal keys to effective and caring communication. She also […]

24. Why We Need 988 with Oscar Destruge

September is suicide prevention month. If you are in a crisis, please call or text 988, the U.S. national suicide and crisis lifeline. Or, visit 988lifeline.org and start a live chat. This episode features a conversation with retired pastor and author Oscar Destruge. He courageously shares his story of loss and despair that nearly led […]

23. Trauma & Mental Health with Marsha Morgan

Marsha Morgan – Resilience Builders Marsha Morgan has a passion for providing care for people who have experienced trauma, live with a mental illness, or struggle with substance use disorders. When she retired after a long, successful career as a mental health professional, she turned her passion and compassion into a consulting firm, Resilience Builders. […]

22. The Many Talents of Jermine Alberty

The Many Talents of Jermine Alberty Rev. Jermine (pronounced Jer-Mane) Alberty is an author, podcast host, faith leader, national trainer with the Mental Health First Aid organization, and consultant. Throughout his 25 years in numerous industries, he has served in both faith-based and secular capacities, including non-profits, faith communities, government, mental health, and academia. In […]

20. The Cycle of Recovery (Part 3)

Recognize Victory In this final episode of a three-part series, Caroline concludes sharing the Cycle of Recovery. In reflecting on her recovery journey, Caroline recognized the need to find hope, experience transformation, and recognize victory. Listen as she recaps the entire cycle with an emphasis on victory. The horse is prepared for the day of […]

19. The Cycle of Recovery (Part 2)

Experience Transformation In this second episode of a three-part series, Caroline continues sharing the Cycle of Recovery. In reflecting on her recovery journey, Caroline recognized the need to find hope, experience transformation, and recognize victory. Today, she shares her insights on transformation. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the […]

18. The Cycle of Recovery (Part 1)

Find Hope In this first episode of a three-part series, Caroline introduces the Cycle of Recovery. In reflecting on her recovery journey, Caroline recognized the need to find hope, experience transformation, and recognize victory. Today, she shares her insights on recovery and hope. For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. […]

17. Easter and Beyond

The Resurrection In this final episode of Caroline’s 3-part Bible study on Easter events, Caroline reads the resurrection story from the gospel of Luke. “Why do you seek the living One among the dead? He is not here, but He has risen.” Luke 24;5-6 (NASB) The Road to Emmaus Luke also records the events that […]

15. Palm Sunday and Before

Part 1 – Palm Sunday In this first of three Bible lessons on Easter events, Caroline reads the Palm Sunday story. She then takes a look at events immediately before and after Jesus rode into Jerusalem for Passover. Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Crisis Lines Nationwide (USA) Suicide […]

12. Mental Health in the Church

What does the church think about mental health? In this first episode of 2023, Caroline has a discussion with a long-time friend that addresses one of the main purposes of the Mental Health and Faith podcast — taking a closer look at mental health and the church. Their conversation includes the following topics: How does […]

11. Restoring Families with Holly Haynes (Part 2)

Restoring Families Caroline continues her interview with Holly Haynes with the Faith-Based Counseling Training Institute (FBCTI). In this episode, Holly shares the final four steps of FBCTI’s 7-step approach to reconciliation. Check out episode 10 for the first three steps! The 7 Steps to Reconciliation Be a peacemaker and make the first move Ask God […]

10. Restoring Families with Holly Haynes (Part 1)

Restoring Families Caroline’s guest, Holly Haynes, shares the importance of having a relationship with God as a foundation for restoring relationships with people. Holly shares Faith-Based Counseling Training Institute’s 7-step approach to restoring family relationships. In this episode, Holly gives foundational information and reveals the first three steps with Scriptural support, stories, and insights. (In […]

8. Family Conflicts and Forgiveness with Dr. James Clark

As the holidays approach, many families anticipate family gatherings with excitement and joy. Unfortunately, some people may be dreading the obligatory holiday gathering. In this interview with Dr. James Clark, we will learn practical steps to take to reduce, and hopefully eliminate, potential family conflict. We will also learn to ask for and offer forgiveness […]

7. Mental Health Resources at MHAH

Mental Health Resources at Mental Health America of the Heartland Sue Crain Lewis is the President/CEO of Mental Health America of the Heartland, the local office of the nationwide Mental Health America nonprofit. Sue’s compassion is her strongest attribute in serving the needs of persons living with mental illness as well as their families and […]

6. Living a Recovery Lifestyle – What does that mean, anyway?

September is Recovery Month! Sometimes this designation gets overlooked because September is also Suicide Prevention Month. But one way to address rising suicide rates is to help people learn to live a life of recovery. In this podcast, Caroline shares definitions of recovery that include one unique perspective of recovery as “to again protect myself.” […]

5. Youth at Risk and Finding Hope

This podcast features an interview with Kirsti Millar, licensed counselor and suicide prevention specialist at ReDiscover in the Greater Kansas City area. Kirsti shares important information about forming relationships and having conversations with youth  at risk of developing suicidal thoughts or completing suicide. This is crucial information in today’s world. Caroline begins the podcast by […]

3. How to Encourage (Part 2)

In this second of two episodes on encouragement, Caroline shares the last five suggestions from her resource on how to encourage friends. While originally written for encouraging someone with depression, the tips provided are applicable for encouraging individuals in many different circumstances. We live in a broken world, and God has called us to encourage […]

2. How to Encourage (Part 1)

In this first of a two-part episode, Caroline shares the first five suggestions from her resource on how to encourage friends. While originally written for encouraging someone with depression, the tips provided are applicable for encouraging individuals in many different circumstances. We live in a broken world, and God has called us to encourage and […]

1. Living With a Mental Illness

Living With a Mental Illness In this first episode of Caroline S. Cooper’s Mental Health and Faith podcast, she introduces herself to her listeners by sharing a little of her journey to become the writer, speaker, and podcast host that she is today. She tells of childhood trauma, untreated mental illness, and the power of […]

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Caroline S. Cooper is a Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) and not a licensed therapist. Caroline’s ministry, Mental Health Connect, offers educational and encouraging resources. The information contained on this site is not intended to, and does not, replace assistance from a mental health professional.