In this episode of Consult the Counselor, host Brian Walker is joined by Taylor Willis and Rachel Parker for an in-depth conversation about infertility. Together, they explore the emotional, spiritual, and relational impact of infertility, discussing both personal experiences and professional insight. They examine the deep grief, struggles, and hope that come with this journey, offering wisdom and biblical encouragement for those facing infertility and those supporting them.

Key Topics Covered:

• What infertility is and how it manifests.
• The emotional, spiritual, and relational toll it takes on individuals and couples.
• How infertility affects men and women differently.
• Common misconceptions about infertility.
• How faith intersects with fertility treatments and medical options.
• The role of lament and how to grieve well.
• How churches and communities can support those experiencing infertility.
• The biblical hope found in Christ amid suffering.
• Practical advice for those suffering and those supporting them.

Resources Mentioned:

Books: 

• Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy by Mark Vroegop – A guide on biblical lament and processing grief.
•  Longing for Motherhood by Chelsea Patterson Sobolik – A book offering personal reflections on infertility and adoption.
•  Praying Through Infertility (Edited by Sheridan Voysey) – A devotional providing encouragement and guidance through infertility.
• When Empty Arms Become a Heavy Burden – A book providing both medical and biblical perspectives on infertility.

Support Groups & Ministries:

• Waiting and Hope Ministries – Offers in-person and virtual support groups for those experiencing infertility.
• New Mercy Moms – A ministry supporting bereaved moms, including those who have experienced miscarriage and stillbirth.
• Foster the Family – A resource for those considering foster care and adoption.
• National Embryo Donation Center – A resource for couples considering embryo adoption.
• Embryo Adoption Podcast – A podcast discussing embryo adoption and providing insight into the process.

Connect with Our Guests:
Taylor Willis and Rachel Parker are experienced counselors at Anchored Virtual, specializing in biblical counseling for individuals and couples facing infertility, grief, trauma, and adoption-related issues.
If you are struggling with infertility or considering adoption, you can message Taylor or Rachel through the Anchored Virtual website for support and guidance.
If this episode has resonated with you, we encourage you to share it with a friend, leave a review, or reach out to us with any questions. You are not alone in this journey, and we are here to walk with you.

In this first episode of Consult the Counselor, host Brian Walker is joined by Rebekah Hannah and Jonathan Haefs for a deep dive into the complex issue of Church Hurt.

Together, they explore what it is, why it’s so painful, and how it affects individuals spiritually, emotionally, and relationally. With personal stories and professional insight, they discuss the long-term impact of church-related wounds and, most importantly, how the hope of the Gospel offers healing and restoration.
 Key Topics Covered:

• What defines Church Hurt and how it manifests.
• The emotional and spiritual toll it takes on individuals.
• How pastors and church leaders experience hurt differently.
• Biblical wisdom on processing pain and finding healing.

We're really excited to tell you about Anchored Virtual's new podcast, Consult the Counselor.

There are very few spaces that are designed for long form conversations on difficult counseling topics. On Consult a Counselor, that's what we want to provide.

In each episode, we invite two of our counselors at Anchored Virtual into a deep dive conversation on a counseling topic.

Once a month, we'll release episodes on issues such as addictions, trauma, church hurt, infertility, forgiveness, abuse, and more. You'll get to hear expert counselors discuss the nuances and challenges of these issues and ultimately apply the hope of the gospel in practical and meaningful ways.

The first episode drops February 1st. We hope you'll join us.