When we face trials in life we can become crippled by powerful emotions and struggle in our spiritual walk. Whilst the external situation is undoubtedly significant, our emotional response to the situation ultimately comes from within us. Therefore it is vital that all components of our experience are addressed.

Proverbs 4:23 tells us ‘keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flows the springs of life’. 

We are complex combinations of body and soul, separate but also inextricably intertwined. Our heart (or soul) is our central driver and motivator. The real us (our heart) is covenantal before God.  As image bearers, we think, desire and feel. And from these functions, we choose - God's way or our way. Our physical body acts as an agent of the soul and carries out our choices via behaviours. 

As unpleasant as they can be, powerful, difficult emotions can be helpful as they express what we truly value. They  act as a 'spiritual smoke alarm', often revealing dysfunctional thinking and desires. 

Emotions are poor leaders but good mirrors of the heart and when we look at all the components of the heart (thinking, feeling, desiring & choosing) in the light of scripture, through the work of the Holy Spirit, 'therapeutic discipleship', can help us to experience God's transformational grace.

Additionally, having a robust understanding of suffering and what it means to be human in the fallen world we live in, is vital.  Biblical counsel and a sound biblical anthropology helps us to understand our struggle and situation through the lens of scripture. 

​Common areas covered include

For individuals:
Anxiety 
Destructive relationships 
Abuse (including spiritual abuse)
​Trauma 

For church leaders & para church organisations:
I speak on, and provide bespoke training, on various pastoral care topics. These include: anxiety, trauma informed care and recognising and responding to abuse. 
I offer bespoke advisory pastoral care case consultancy charged by the hour.