Mental Health & Faith: A Closer Look

Caroline S. Cooper
  • 3.5 (2)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Biweekly

Mental Health & Faith: A Closer Look will dig into topics such as mental illness, wellness tools, spiritual growth, and more. It is challenging to navigate mental and emotional issues, but you can persevere through Christ. Episodes are between 25-30 minutes and will be posted between 2-4 times per month. The format includes educational sessions, interviews with individuals with a variety of backgrounds, and Bible studies related to wellness and recovery. Caroline S. Cooper is a certified peer specialist in mental health with a Master’s in Bible & Theology. She is pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree. For more information, please visit her website, carolinescooper.com or contact her at caroline@carolinescooper.com. Please join this important conversation through comments, sharing episodes, and contacting Caroline to be a guest on the show. May God bless our journeys!

  1. 17h ago

    84. Jeremy Smith: Shepherding to Wholeness

    Church and Mental Health Jeremy Smith is a licensed  professional clinical counselor (LPCC) in Ohio. In this episode, he first provides information about the challenges faced by many individuals in the caring profession. Jeremy also introduces the audience to ACES, which stands for Adverse Childhood Experiences. In the second half of the episode, Jeremy provides practical suggestions for pastors, ministry leaders, and others in how to care for their own needs, church staff, and others in the church or other organizations. Jeremy highlighted an important resources that can help. Click on the image below to read more about Shepherding Towards A Healthy Ministry. https://churchandmentalhealth.com/product/shepherding-towards-a-healthy-ministry/ Jeremy’s Contact Information: Website: https://churchandmentalhealth.com Email: jeremy@churchandmentalhealth.com Join the conversation! Join the conversation about this episode by leaving your comments and sharing the episode. And don’t forget to subscribe!  Please email Caroline at caroline@carolinescooper.com if you have questions or suggestions, or if you are interested in being interviewed on the program. Caroline S. Cooper is a writer, speaker, podcast/YouTube host, and mental health support group leader whose mission is to offer encouragement for life in a complicated world. Her ministry name is Mental Health Connect. NEED HELP? Contact the Nationwide (USA) Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline: CALL or TEXT 988 if you are in a crisis or need information to assist someone else in a crisis. Or, CHAT at 988.lifeline.org  Contact and Connect with Caroline Please post your questions, comments, or suggestions and don’t forget to subscribe! Join the conversation on mental health and faith! Follow Caroline on social media. Website – https://www.carolinescooper.com/ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@MentalHealthAndFaith Podcast – https://mental-health-and-faith.blubrry.net/ Facebook Mental Health Connect – https://www.facebook.com/CarolineSueCooper Facebook Author Page – https://www.facebook.com/carolinescooperauthor/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/carolinesuecooper/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinescooper/ Amazon Author Page – Caroline S. Cooper on Amazon Books

  2. Sep 3

    83. Jeremy Smith: Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

    Church and Mental Health Jeremy Smith is a licensed  professional clinical counselor (LPCC) in Ohio. In this episode he shares general information about therapy and the different modalities (types of therapeutic approaches) that one may experience during a therapy session. As an integrationist, Jeremy draws from the strengths of various therapy models to find what will work best for his clients. Solution-Based Brief Therapy is a preferred approach Jeremy uses to focus on finding a solution to an immediate need. To learn more about these therapies, click on the names below to reach a description. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Motivational Interiewing Solution-Based Brief Therapy Jeremy’s Contact Information: Website: https://churchandmentalhealth.com Email: jeremy@churchandmentalhealth.com To download this self-care guide, click the image below. https://churchandmentalhealth.com/product/99-self-care-techniques-for-christians/ Join the conversation! Join the conversation about this episode by leaving your comments and sharing the episode. And don’t forget to subscribe!  Please email Caroline at caroline@carolinescooper.com if you have questions or suggestions, or if you are interested in being interviewed on the program. Caroline S. Cooper is a writer, speaker, podcast/YouTube host, and mental health support group leader whose mission is to offer encouragement for life in a complicated world. Her ministry name is Mental Health Connect. NEED HELP? Contact the Nationwide (USA) Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline: CALL or TEXT 988 if you are in a crisis or need information to assist someone else in a crisis. Or, CHAT at 988.lifeline.org  Contact and Connect with Caroline Please post your questions, comments, or suggestions and don’t forget to subscribe! Join the conversation on mental health and faith! Follow Caroline on social media. Website – https://www.carolinescooper.com/ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@MentalHealthAndFaith Podcast – https://mental-health-and-faith.blubrry.net/ Facebook Mental Health Connect – https://www.facebook.com/CarolineSueCooper Facebook Author Page – https://www.facebook.com/carolinescooperauthor/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/carolinesuecooper/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinescooper/ Amazon Author Page – Caroline S. Cooper on Amazon Books

  3. Aug 26

    82. From Heartache to Healing with Kelly Je

    F.I.G.H.T. “Focusing in Growth & Holding Together” is Jessica “Kelly Je” Kelly’s ministry. Her mission is to to provide a judgment-free community that offers support, education, and resources, particularly within the African American community, to break the stigma surrounding mental health. Like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon, we believe that healing is a journey, and we are here to uplift, empower, and guide individuals toward growth, transformation, and resilience. Kelly Je’s story is relatable and inspiring. In this episode, she shares her journey from trauma, suicidal ideation, and mental illness to a place of healing and ministry. Visit her website and social media channels to learn more about her vision. Website: www.mentallystrongphysicallyfree.com Email: info@mentallystrongphysicallyfree.com Digital Business Card: https://s.blinq.me/XxsINSry66R4h9uaoTnu?bs=icl Facebook:www.facebook.com/mentallystrongphysicallyfree Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentallystrongphysicallyfree TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fight_hope The F.I.G.H.T. Vision: Our vision is to ignite conversations, challenge stigmas, and create a world where no one feels alone in their mental health journey. We strive to be a source of hope, a voice for the voiceless, and a support system that helps individuals navigate their struggles. Just as a butterfly symbolizes transformation, we believe that with the right support and resources, every individual can rise above their challenges and soar. Through awareness, education, and healing, we are dedicated to fostering a community that embodies strength, unity, and perseverance. Join the conversation! Join the conversation about this episode by leaving your comments and sharing the episode. And don’t forget to subscribe!  Please email Caroline at caroline@carolinescooper.com if you have questions or suggestions, or if you are interested in being interviewed on the program. Caroline S. Cooper is a writer, speaker, podcast/YouTube host, and mental health support group leader whose mission is to offer encouragement for life in a complicated world. Her ministry name is Mental Health Connect. NEED HELP? Contact the Nationwide (USA) Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline: CALL or TEXT 988 if you are in a crisis or need information to assist someone else in a crisis. Or, CHAT at 988.lifeline.org  Contact and Connect with Caroline Please post your questions, comments, or suggestions and don’t forget to subscribe! Join the conversation on mental health and faith! Follow Caroline on social media. Website – https://www.carolinescooper.com/ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@MentalHealthAndFaith Podcast – https://mental-health-and-faith.blubrry.net/ Facebook Mental Health Connect – https://www.facebook.com/CarolineSueCooper Facebook Author Page – https://www.facebook.com/carolinescooperauthor/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/carolinesuecooper/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinescooper/ Amazon Author Page – Caroline S. Cooper on Amazon Books

  4. Aug 21

    81. Navigating the Deep with Dave Nienhuis

    And the Sea was No More In his new book, And the Sea Was No More, Dave Nienhuis shares his journey of trauma to healing using stories in the biblical text. Dave says, “I wrote this book for me. I needed to discover a faith language that could account for the reality of meaningless suffering. That language was revealed to me in the story of Scripture. And now I want to pass it over to others.” In this compelling interview and discussion Dave shares the contrast between darkness and “the deep,” and contrasts the need to ask “why” with the better question of “how.” The Bible contains the answers. And the Sea Was No More will be released on September 22, 2026. Find it on Amazon and wherever books are sold. Amazon Listing Publisher Site Dave Nienhuis is professor of New Testament studies at Seattle Pacific Seminary. He has authored and edited several books. To learn more about Dave, visit his substack page and website. https://beyondtheshallows.substack.com/ https://davenienhuis.com/ Join the conversation! Join the conversation about this episode by leaving your comments and sharing the episode. And don’t forget to subscribe!  Please email Caroline at caroline@carolinescooper.com if you have questions or suggestions, or if you are interested in being interviewed on the program. Caroline S. Cooper is a writer, speaker, podcast/YouTube host, and mental health support group leader whose mission is to offer encouragement for life in a complicated world. Her ministry name is Mental Health Connect. NEED HELP? Contact the Nationwide (USA) Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline: CALL or TEXT 988 if you are in a crisis or need information to assist someone else in a crisis. Or, CHAT at 988.lifeline.org  Contact and Connect with Caroline Please post your questions, comments, or suggestions and don’t forget to subscribe! Join the conversation on mental health and faith! Follow Caroline on social media. Website – https://www.carolinescooper.com/ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@MentalHealthAndFaith Podcast – https://mental-health-and-faith.blubrry.net/ Facebook Mental Health Connect – https://www.facebook.com/CarolineSueCooper Facebook Author Page – https://www.facebook.com/carolinescooperauthor/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/carolinesuecooper/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinescooper/ Amazon Author Page – Caroline S. Cooper on Amazon Books

  5. Jun 23

    80. Detour Thinking – Part 2

    Cognitive Distortions – Part 2 Inspired by a poster at a psychiatric treatment ce2nter, the two episodes on “detour thinking” will explore the cognitive distortions and relevant scriptures. A cognitive distortion can be defined as a distorted thought or cognitive distortion is an exaggerated pattern of thought that’s not based on facts. It consequently leads you to view things more negatively than they really are. In other words, cognitive distortions are your mind convincing you to believe negative2 things about yourself and your world that are not necessarily true. Detour Thinking (Cognitive Distortions) – Part 1 All or Nothing – Ezekiel 18:25, 29 Justification – Luke 14:18-20 Center of the Universe – Matthew 6:33 Jumping to Conclusions – Matthew 7:1-2 Catastrophizing – Amos 6:3 Detour Thinking (Cognitive Distortions) – Part 2 Mental Filtering – Matthew 7:3-5 Victim Stance – Jeremiah 45:2-3 Instant Gratification – Isaiah 40:31 Personalization – Ecclesiastes 1:2 Power Play – Proverbs 28:26 (The Message) NEED HELP? Contact the Nationwide (USA) Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline: CALL or TEXT 988 if you are in a crisis or need information to assist someone else in a crisis. Or, CHAT at 988.lifeline.org  Join the conversation! Join the conversation by leaving your comments or emailing Caroline at caroline@carolinescooper.com. Caroline S. Cooper is a writer, speaker, podcast/YouTube host, and mental health support group leader whose mission is to offer encouragement for life in a complicated world. Her ministry name is Mental Health Connect. Please email Caroline if you have questions or suggestions, or if you are interested in being interviewed on the program. Contact and Connect with Caroline Please post your questions, comments, or suggestions and don’t forget to subscribe! Join the conversation on mental health and faith! Follow Caroline on social media. Website – https://www.carolinescooper.com/ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@MentalHealthAndFaith Podcast – https://mental-health-and-faith.blubrry.net/ Facebook Mental Health Connect – https://www.facebook.com/CarolineSueCooper Facebook Author Page – https://www.facebook.com/carolinescooperauthor/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/carolinesuecooper/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinescooper/ Amazon Author Page – Caroline S. Cooper on Amazon Books

  6. Jun 9

    79. Detour Thinking – Part 1

    Cognitive Distortions Inspired by a poster at a psychiatric treatment center, the two episodes on “detour thinking” will explore the cognitive distortions and relevant scriptures. A cognitive distortion can be defined as a distorted thought or cognitive distortion is an exaggerated pattern of thought that’s not based on facts. It consequently leads you to view things more negatively than they really are. In other words, cognitive distortions are your mind convincing you to believe negative things about yourself and your world that are not necessarily true. Detour Thinking (Cognitive Distortions) – Part 1 All or Nothing – Ezekiel 18:25, 29 Justification – Luke 14:18-20 Center of the Universe – Matthew 6:33 Jumping to Conclusions – Matthew 7:1-2 Catastrophizing – Amos 6:3 NEED HELP? Contact the Nationwide (USA) Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline: CALL or TEXT 988 if you are in a crisis or need information to assist someone else in a crisis. Or, CHAT at 988.lifeline.org  Join the conversation! Join the conversation by leaving your comments or emailing Caroline at caroline@carolinescooper.com. Caroline S. Cooper is a writer, speaker, podcast/YouTube host, and mental health support group leader whose mission is to offer encouragement for life in a complicated world. Her ministry name is Mental Health Connect. Please email Caroline if you have questions or suggestions, or if you are interested in being interviewed on the program. Contact and Connect with Caroline Please post your questions, comments, or suggestions and don’t forget to subscribe! Join the conversation on mental health and faith! Follow Caroline on social media. Website – https://www.carolinescooper.com/ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@MentalHealthAndFaith Podcast – https://mental-health-and-faith.blubrry.net/ Facebook Mental Health Connect – https://www.facebook.com/CarolineSueCooper Facebook Author Page – https://www.facebook.com/carolinescooperauthor/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/carolinesuecooper/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinescooper/ Amazon Author Page – Caroline S. Cooper on Amazon Books

  7. May 26

    78. Part 2 – Road to Recovery with Brian Mathrusse

    Part 2 – Brian’s Story Continues In part two of this two part series, Brian Mathrusse shares how our creator God gave him assurance that there is hope and recovery is possible. This required turning away from the unhealthy habits Brian had lived with for many years, and making the decision to work through his addiction and mental health issues. Brian’s story reminds us that substance abuse and mental illness do not discriminate. Even individuals who come from well-respected families and enjoy educational success can find themselves making decisions that are not easily overcome. This episode includes encouragement for anyone wanting to improve their mental health and well-being. Brian Mathrusse can be reached at bmathrusse@gmail.com. May is Mental Health Awareness Month. For greater understanding of mental health, check out the following resources. SAMHSA – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness MHA – Mental Health America  NEED HELP? Contact the Nationwide (USA) Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline: CALL or TEXT 988 if you are in a crisis or need information to assist someone else in a crisis. Or, CHAT at 988.lifeline.org  Join the conversation! Join the conversation by leaving your comments or emailing Caroline at caroline@carolinescooper.com. Caroline S. Cooper is a writer, speaker, podcast/YouTube host, and mental health support group leader whose mission is to offer encouragement for life in a complicated world. Her ministry name is Mental Health Connect. Please email Caroline if you have questions or suggestions, or if you are interested in being interviewed on the program. Contact and Connect with Caroline Please post your questions, comments, or suggestions and don’t forget to subscribe! Join the conversation on mental health and faith! Follow Caroline on social media. Website – https://www.carolinescooper.com/ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@MentalHealthAndFaith Podcast – https://mental-health-and-faith.blubrry.net/ Facebook Mental Health Connect – https://www.facebook.com/CarolineSueCooper Facebook Author Page – https://www.facebook.com/carolinescooperauthor/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/carolinesuecooper/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinescooper/ Amazon Author Page – Caroline S. Cooper on Amazon Books

  8. May 19

    77. Journey to Recovery with Brian Mathrusse (Part 1)

    Part 1 – Brian’s Story Begins In part one of a two part series, Brian Mathrusse begins his story of substance use and mental health challenges that, in part, were influenced by situations that occurred in his growing up years. Brian’s story reminds us that substance abuse and mental illness do not discriminate. Even individuals who come from well-respected families and enjoy educational success can find themselves making decisions that are not easily overcome. Part two will continue from where this episode ends and includes specific strategies and encouragement for anyone to improve their mental health and well-being. Brian Mathrusse can be reached at bmathrusse@gmail.com. May is Mental Health Awareness Month. For greater understanding of mental health, check out the following resources. SAMHSA – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness MHA – Mental Health America  NEED HELP? Contact the Nationwide (USA) Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline: CALL or TEXT 988 if you are in a crisis or need information to assist someone else in a crisis. Or, CHAT at 988.lifeline.org  Join the conversation! Join the conversation by leaving your comments or emailing Caroline at caroline@carolinescooper.com. Caroline S. Cooper is a writer, speaker, podcast/YouTube host, and mental health support group leader whose mission is to offer encouragement for life in a complicated world. Her ministry name is Mental Health Connect. Please email Caroline if you have questions or suggestions, or if you are interested in being interviewed on the program. Contact and Connect with Caroline Please post your questions, comments, or suggestions and don’t forget to subscribe! Join the conversation on mental health and faith! Follow Caroline on social media. Website – https://www.carolinescooper.com/ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@MentalHealthAndFaith Podcast – https://mental-health-and-faith.blubrry.net/ Facebook Mental Health Connect – https://www.facebook.com/CarolineSueCooper Facebook Author Page – https://www.facebook.com/carolinescooperauthor/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/carolinesuecooper/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinescooper/ Amazon Author Page – Caroline S. Cooper on Amazon Books

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About

Mental Health & Faith: A Closer Look will dig into topics such as mental illness, wellness tools, spiritual growth, and more. It is challenging to navigate mental and emotional issues, but you can persevere through Christ. Episodes are between 25-30 minutes and will be posted between 2-4 times per month. The format includes educational sessions, interviews with individuals with a variety of backgrounds, and Bible studies related to wellness and recovery. Caroline S. Cooper is a certified peer specialist in mental health with a Master’s in Bible & Theology. She is pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree. For more information, please visit her website, carolinescooper.com or contact her at caroline@carolinescooper.com. Please join this important conversation through comments, sharing episodes, and contacting Caroline to be a guest on the show. May God bless our journeys!

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