019: Take Captive Every Thought: Using Faith-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to Conquer Your Mental Battles with Kimberly Christian

In this episode, I’m joined by Kimberly Christian, a licensed clinical social worker and faith-based counselor. Kimberly introduces us to her program, The Christian Method, which combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with biblical principles to help people understand and transform their thoughts and feelings using CBT techniques.

Kimberly delves into the crucial difference between thoughts and feelings, emphasizing that thoughts are complex narratives, while feelings are simple, single words. She shares insights into thought retraining—how changing negative or distorted thinking patterns can significantly impact mental health and behavior. The conversation also touches on the importance of managing intense feelings before making big decisions and how understanding our thought patterns can lead to better decision-making and emotional well-being.

Through practical examples and personal experiences, Kimberly highlights how aligning our thoughts with scripture, like Romans 12:2, can lead to clarity and spiritual growth. This episode is packed with valuable advice for anyone looking to integrate faith and psychology to improve their mental and spiritual health.

Key points:

- Difference Between Thoughts and Feelings: Thoughts: Complex narratives and beliefs; Feelings: Simple, single-word emotions

- Thought Retraining: Must learn to change negative or distorted thinking patterns, recognize when we’re listening to lies

- Managing Intense Feelings: Importance of addressing emotions — positive or negative — before making decisions. Big feeling = no big decision.

- H.A.L.T. Acronym: Pause before you take action and consider, am I Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired. Lauren added in: Hormonal

Romans 12:2 - Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Jeremiah 17:9 - The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?

2 Corinthians 10:5 - Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

Links Mentioned:

Kimberly's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimberlychristianlcsw

Kimberly's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kimberlychristianlcsw

Kimberly's Facebook group — Belief Based Healing Hub https://www.facebook.com/groups/330062763001650

Free guide: Discover How to Reduce Feelings of Depression & Anxiety for People of Faith

https://pages.kimberlychristianlcsw.com/free-guide-1

From ad — Decision Compass: www.anchoreddecisions.com/compass

About Kimberly:

Kimberly Christian is a licensed clinical social worker and faith based clinical counselor. She is committed to helping Christians practically adopt a biblical worldview through the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy.

Her work focuses on the relationship between thoughts and feelings, aligning them with God's word to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. Believing in the transformative power of integrating mental health and faith, Kimberly is passionate about empowering those struggling with mental health issues to manage their symptoms confidently, knowing their Christian faith complements therapeutic practices. Kimberly also has a YouTube channel, a Facebook group, and a signature program called the Christian Method.

Connect with me on social media:
www.instagram.com/anchoreddecisions
www.facebook.com/anchoreddecisions

Check out my website and decision guide shop:
www.anchoreddecisions.com
www.anchoreddecisions.com/shop

*Note: Some links might be affiliate l