The Faith Filled Therapy Podcast

The Faith Filled Therapist

Hello to you, I’m glad you’re here.  The Faith Filled Therapy podcast sits at the intersection of Scripture, neuroscience, and therapeutic insight, exploring how we actually experience change, not just talk about it. Each episode gently unpacks what it means to renew your mind in a real, lived way,  looking at thought patterns, the nervous system, and the inner world we carry, all through a lens that holds neuroscience with curiosity, while ultimately submitting it to the truth of Scripture. This isn’t about quick fixes or surface-level faith. It’s about understanding why you feel the way you feel, learning how your mind and body work, and discovering how transformation happens-spirit, soul and synapses. If you’ve ever loved God but still felt stuck in your thoughts, overwhelmed in your emotions, or unsure how faith connects to your mental health, you’re not alone. This podcast will help you make sense of your inner world, and take small, meaningful steps towards wholeness.

  1. 2d ago

    A Faith-Filled Insight Into Adlerian Therapy: “Belonging Without Proving Your Worth” with Judy Potts

    Why do we still feel not good enough, even when we know God loves us? Could perfectionism, people pleasing and constant striving be connected to how we learned to belong? What might change if we no longer felt we had to prove our worth? In this episode of the Faith Filled Therapy Podcast, Jo Hargreaves is joined by Judy Potts, an Adlerian therapist known as The Social Therapist, to explore our longing to feel equal, secure and good enough. Judy shares how tying her worth to achievement led to overworking, burnout and depression, and how her own experience of therapy helped her begin to see herself differently. She introduces the Adlerian concept of private logic: the conclusions we draw early in life about ourselves, other people and what we must do to belong. Together, Jo and Judy explore how Christian faith and psychology can work alongside one another when knowing we are loved does not yet translate into feeling secure. They discuss self-compassion, the hidden cost of striving, and the difference between freely using our strengths and feeling compelled to prove ourselves through them. From becoming more curious about others to recognising what is ours to carry in relationships, this conversation offers a warm invitation to understand your patterns with compassion and explore a more secure way of belonging. Key Takeaways Our early conclusions can shape how we seek belonging. Judy explains how private logic develops through the meaning we give our experiences. Beliefs that we must achieve, please others or stand out can continue to influence our adult relationships and choices.Understanding your patterns creates room for compassion. Jo and Judy invite us to recognise why our protective strategies once made sense. Understanding where they came from can help us approach change with encouragement instead of self-criticism.Knowing you are loved and feeling secure can be different experiences. The conversation explores the gap between understanding God’s unconditional love and feeling that truth deeply. Judy describes how therapy can help us examine old beliefs and practise new ways of responding alongside our faith.Your strengths do not have to become conditions of worth. Hard work, generosity and a desire to do things well can be valuable gifts. Judy encourages us to notice when freely choosing to use those gifts becomes feeling that we must use them at any cost to be acceptable.Counting the cost can help us recognise unhelpful patterns. Jo and Judy reflect on how overcommitting and perfectionism affect both us and the people we love. Asking what a pattern costs, and who pays that cost, can help us make more intentional choices.Belonging can grow through curiosity and contribution. Judy introduces social interest, an Adlerian concept concerned with connection, cooperation and care for others. They explore how shifting attention from how we are being perceived towards genuine interest in another person can create space for connection.Caring for someone does not mean carrying every reaction. Judy introduces the separation of tasks as a way of considering our own responsibilities and those of other people. She and Jo reflect honestly on the discomfort that can remain after setting a boundary, even when we believe it was needed.About Judy Potts Judy Potts is an Adlerian therapist known online as The Social Therapist. Her work explores feelings of inferiority, belonging and the development of a more secure sense of self. A church leader and mother of two, Judy brings Christian faith, her own experience of therapy and her work with clients into the conversation. She also creates psychoeducational resources, including her online course, Overcoming Inferiority. Connect with Judy & Resources Links Website: www.judypottstherapy.comInstagram: @the.social.therapistCourse: Overcoming InferiorityMasterclass: Stop Feeling Responsible If you’d like to watch the video version of the podcast, you can watch it on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/vxtLrgBLJqY For free resources, reflections, and regular encouragement, come join me over on Substack. You’ll also find the option to subscribe to The Faith-Filled Collective; a monthly space for women who are pursuing wholeness and holiness.  You can also find my e-books and webinar links here Love and hope Jo

    A Faith-Filled Insight Into Adlerian Therapy: “Belonging Without Proving Your Worth” with Judy Potts
  2. Sep 7

    It’s Time to Heal: “Rewiring the Mind and Living From Love” with Dr Derwin L. Gray

    Can we really heal from the things that have shaped us? What does it mean to renew your mind after trauma? And how can we learn to live from love rather than spending our lives trying to earn it? In this episode of the Faith-Filled Therapy Podcast, Jo Hargreaves is joined by pastor, author and former NFL player Dr Derwin L. Gray for a powerful conversation about trauma, healing, identity and the transforming love of Jesus. Derwin shares openly about growing up surrounded by addiction, abuse and violence, his journey from professional football to faith, and the healing that followed. He and Jo explore how biblical truth can reshape our thoughts, nervous system and lived experience, helping us face pain while replacing the lies we have believed with truth. Drawing from his new book, It’s Time To Heal: Four God-Given Steps To Restore What Life Has Shattered, Derwin introduces his HEAL framework: being honest about what happened, expecting pain along the way, accepting the past without letting it define you, and ultimately learning to live from love, not for love. Blending Scripture, neuroscience, grace and real-life stories, this episode offers a practical, Christ-centred invitation to face what has hurt us and move towards healing. Key Takeaways You cannot heal from what you will not reveal. Derwin talks about the importance of becoming honest about what has happened to us, and sometimes what we have done, rather than hiding or minimising our pain. Healing begins with bringing our real story into the light. Your past can shape you without defining your future. Trauma is real and its effects matter, but Derwin challenges the idea that our past gets to “take the ink pen and write our future.” What happened to us is part of our story, but it does not have to become our identity. Renewing your mind is a repeated practice, not a one-time moment. Jo and Derwin explore neuroplasticity, taking thoughts captive and learning to recognise the difference between thoughts that speak against us and the truth of who we are in Christ. Healing is not toxic positivity. Renewing the mind doesn't mean pretending painful experiences did not happen. It means facing what is true while also allowing the truth of Scripture to reshape our beliefs, thoughts and behaviours. We can learn to live from love rather than for love. Derwin describes the security that comes from knowing we are already loved by God, including at our worst. Instead of performing for acceptance, we can begin to live from a place of belovedness. Our brains can learn new patterns. Derwin shares how practices he first learned as a professional football player eventually helped him understand neuroplasticity and the process of replacing deeply rooted beliefs with biblical truth. Healing can change more than one generation. Derwin shares his hope that people will interrupt patterns of hurt, toxicity and trauma so that what is passed to future generations is health and blessing instead. Jesus is at the centre of wholeness. Jo and Derwin discuss healing as something that encompasses spirit, soul and body. Therapy, neuroscience and spiritual disciplines can all have a place, while the conversation continually points back to relationship and union with Christ.  About Dr Derwin L. Gray Dr Derwin L. Gray is the co-founding and Lead Pastor of Transformation Church, just outside Charlotte, North Carolina. He is the recipient of the John M. Perkins Justice Award, an award given to a visionary leader whose life and work exemplify the principles of biblical justice. Derwin is also an award-winning author whose books include How to Heal Our Racial Divide: What the Bible Says, and What the First Century Christians Knew about Racial Reconciliation, Lit Up With Love: Becoming Good-News People To A Gospel-Starved World, and his new release, It’s Time To Heal: Four God-Given Steps To Restore What Life Has Shattered. Connect with Derwin & Resources Links Website: DerwinLGray.com Instagram: @derwinlgray Facebook: @derwinlgray Transformation Church: transformationchurch.tc New Book: Derwin’s new book, It’s Time To Heal: Four God-Given Steps To Restore What Life Has Shattered, releases 8 September. It's Time to Heal on the Tyndale Media CenterBook Buy Link for It's Time to HealNetGalley Link for the It's Time to Heal ARC If you’d like to watch the video version of the podcast, you can watch it on YouTube here: YouTube Link For free resources, reflections, and regular encouragement, come join me over on Substack. You’ll also find the option to subscribe to The Faith-Filled Collective; a monthly space for women who are pursuing wholeness and holiness.  You can also find my e-books and webinar links here Love and hope Jo

    It’s Time to Heal: “Rewiring the Mind and Living From Love” with Dr Derwin L. Gray
  3. Aug 26

    Neuroscience, Epigenetics & Spiritual Growth with Dr Chuck Coker

    How does faith shape the brain? Can neuroscience help us understand spiritual growth? And what does epigenetics have to do with transformation? In this episode of the Faith-Filled Therapy Podcast, Jo Hargreaves is joined by author, speaker and leadership expert Dr Chuck Coker to explore the fascinating intersection of neuroscience, psychology and biblical wisdom. Together, they discuss emotional intelligence, spiritual formation, Gen Z’s search for authenticity, the science of worship, and how God’s design for spirit, soul and body points us towards wholeness. Chuck also shares insights from his book, A God-Shaped Mind: The Neuroscientific Path to Spiritual Maturity, which explores spiritual development through both Scripture and brain science. Key Takeaways Faith and neuroscience don’t have to be competing conversations. Jo and Chuck explore how our understanding of the brain can offer another lens through which to consider spiritual growth and transformation. We are designed as whole people. The conversation considers the interconnectedness of spirit, soul, brain and body, and what that means for living a full and flourishing life. Spiritual maturity is an ongoing process. Chuck explores stages of spiritual development and how growth can shape the way we think, relate to others and invest in the next generation. His book develops this journey from “spiritual infant” through to “spiritual parent.” Emotional intelligence and spiritual formation are deeply connected. Chuck and Jo discuss emotional intelligence alongside the Fruit of the Spirit and the role relationships play in our development. Neuroplasticity and epigenetics open up fascinating questions about transformation. Chuck explains his understanding of how our experiences and spiritual formation interact with biological processes. Gen Z is looking for authenticity, not perfection. Chuck reflects on a generation seeking truth and reality, and on a God whose love is based on relationship rather than performance. Community and discipleship matter. Transformation isn't simply about acquiring information. Chuck emphasises intimacy, accountability and meaningful relationships as important parts of spiritual maturity.  About Dr Chuck Coker Dr Charles “Chuck” Coker, PhD, DMin, SPHR, is the founder and CEO of LifeThrive Performance Systems and has more than 35 years of experience across leadership, teaching and ministry. His work brings together neuroscience, psychology and biblical wisdom to help people grow emotionally, spiritually and personally.  He is also the founder of Yesha Ministries and author of A God-Shaped Mind: The Neuroscientific Path to Spiritual Maturity, which explores how brain science and biblical truth intersect in the journey towards spiritual maturity. Connect with Chuck & Resources Website: ChuckCoker.com  Book: A God-Shaped Mind: The Neuroscientific Path to Spiritual Maturity Chuck’s book is available now in Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Walmart and Target as places where listeners can find it.  If you’d like to watch the video version of the podcast, you can watch it on YouTube here: YouTube Link Special resource for Faith-Filled Therapy listeners: Purchase a copy of Dr Chuck Coker’s A God-Shaped Mind and send a screenshot of your proof of purchase to cwcoker@lifethrive.com to receive a complimentary 16-week Bible study designed to accompany the book.  For free resources, reflections, and regular encouragement, come join me over on Substack. You’ll also find the option to subscribe to The Faith-Filled Collective; a monthly space for women who are pursuing wholeness and holiness.  You can also find my e-books and webinar links here Love and hope Jo

    Neuroscience, Epigenetics & Spiritual Growth with Dr Chuck Coker
  4. May 3

    Exploring the Mind-Body Connection with Dr. Lee Warren

    Exploring the Mind-Body Connection with Dr. Lee Warren Join us in this insightful episode as Dr. Lee Warren, a renowned neurosurgeon, shares his unique perspective on neuroscience, faith, and mental well-being. Discover how understanding the brain can deepen our spiritual walk and improve mental health.In this episode:   The role of neuroplasticity and how deliberate mental practices can reshape our brainsPractical strategies for self-regulation based on Scripture and neuroscienceThe fascinating interface of mind, brain, and spiritual lifeHow suffering can refine us and give purpose, supported by biblical perspectiveThe impact of hope on neurochemistry and resilienceExploring the concept of the mind’s location and its connection to eternityThe significance of wonder and awe in mental health and spiritual life  Key Takeaways:   Dr. Warren’s blend of neuroscience and faith points to the importance of managing thoughts through intentionality and the biblical practice of taking every thought captive.The “self-brain surgery” metaphor emphasises deliberate mental strategies to address emotional and spiritual health.The reticular activating system filters our perceptions; belief modifies the signals we focus on, shaping our reality.Moments of wonder and awe, especially in the right brain hemisphere, are vital for mental health and spiritual connection.Hope activates motivational neurochemicals, empowering us to undertake meaningful change, even in suffering.The biblical concept of “renewing the mind” aligns with neuroplasticity principles—changing thought patterns through deliberate action.The distinction between mind and brain underscores that thoughts are not exclusively generated by physical brain activity, offering hope and freedom.Suffering, when reframed, can lead to character development and hope, as supported by both Scripture and science.  Dr. Lee Warren's Website  Self Brain Surgery Book Lectio 365 Prayer AppPodcastSubstack Newsletter  For free resources, reflections, and regular encouragement, come join me over on Substack. You’ll also find the option to subscribe to The Faith-Filled Collective; a monthly space for women who are pursuing wholeness and holiness.  You can also find my e-books and webinar links here Love and hope Jo

  5. 12/27/2025

    An Intro To Your Left And Right Hemisphere With Dr Perianne Brownback

    In this episode, Jo Hargreaves, faith-filled therapist and writer, is joined by Dr Perrianne Brownback for a thoughtful conversation about the left and right hemispheres of the brain, moving beyond pop-psychology myths into something far richer and more meaningful. Together, they explore how simplistic ideas about being “left-brained” or “right-brained” have been largely debunked, while also uncovering the profound truth that how our brain processes the world really does matter. Drawing on the work of psychiatrist and philosopher Ian McGilchrist, this conversation looks at the distinct roles of each hemisphere, and why the left hemisphere was never designed to operate independently, but to be guided and interpreted through the right. This episode invites listeners to reconsider how they think, perceive, and make meaning, not just cognitively, but relationally and spiritually. It’s a grounding, curiosity-stirring conversation that connects neuroscience, lived experience, and faith, offering a deeper understanding of how we attend to the world, to God, and to ourselves.  You can follow Perianne's work here and purchase her book here For free resources, reflections, and regular encouragement, come join me over on Substack. You’ll also find the option to subscribe to The Faith-Filled Collective; a monthly space for women who are pursuing wholeness and holiness.  You can also find my e-books and webinar links here Love and hope Jo

  6. 06/11/2025

    Understanding Intrusive Thoughts Through Scripture and Science

    keywords intrusive thoughts, neuroscience, scripture, mental health, compassion, grounding techniques, faith, anxiety, emotional regulation, spiritual wellness summary In this episode of Faith Filled Therapy, Jo Hargreaves explores the complex nature of intrusive thoughts, their intersection with neuroscience and scripture, and how to manage them compassionately. She discusses the role of stress, hormonal changes, and the importance of grounding techniques and scripture in finding peace. Jo emphasizes that intrusive thoughts are not a reflection of one's character but rather a natural response of the brain, and she encourages listeners to approach these thoughts with compassion and understanding. takeaways Intrusive thoughts can be distressing and often arise unexpectedly.Understanding the neuroscience behind intrusive thoughts can foster self-compassion.Stress and hormonal changes can increase the frequency of intrusive thoughts.Mindfulness and interrupting negative thought patterns are crucial for mental freedom.Grounding techniques, such as deep breathing and scripture meditation, can help manage intrusive thoughts.God's compassion is present in our struggles with intrusive thoughts.Scripture can serve as a lifeline for grounding and reassurance.The brain's response to perceived threats can be misinterpreted as real danger.It's important to not attach meaning to intrusive thoughts to prevent them from gaining power.You are not broken; there is grace for your mind and nervous system. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Intrusive Thoughts 02:56 Understanding Intrusive Thoughts 05:19 The Neuroscience Behind Intrusive Thoughts 07:38 The Role of the Amygdala and Prefrontal Cortex 10:08 Compassion and Reassurance in Managing Thoughts 13:07 Grounding Techniques and Scripture 15:43 The Spiritual Aspect of Intrusive Thoughts 18:03 Finding Peace and Compassion in Faith 21:12 flow-211881.mp3 For free resources, reflections, and regular encouragement, come join me over on Substack. You’ll also find the option to subscribe to The Faith-Filled Collective; a monthly space for women who are pursuing wholeness and holiness.  You can also find my e-books and webinar links here Love and hope Jo

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About

Hello to you, I’m glad you’re here.  The Faith Filled Therapy podcast sits at the intersection of Scripture, neuroscience, and therapeutic insight, exploring how we actually experience change, not just talk about it. Each episode gently unpacks what it means to renew your mind in a real, lived way,  looking at thought patterns, the nervous system, and the inner world we carry, all through a lens that holds neuroscience with curiosity, while ultimately submitting it to the truth of Scripture. This isn’t about quick fixes or surface-level faith. It’s about understanding why you feel the way you feel, learning how your mind and body work, and discovering how transformation happens-spirit, soul and synapses. If you’ve ever loved God but still felt stuck in your thoughts, overwhelmed in your emotions, or unsure how faith connects to your mental health, you’re not alone. This podcast will help you make sense of your inner world, and take small, meaningful steps towards wholeness.

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