In this episode we sit down with Dr. Natalie Atwell, a mental health pro, to talk all about the messy but important intersection of mental health and spirituality. Brandon gets real about his own struggles and some of the hurdles the church has when it comes to these issues.

Dr. Atwell brings some serious wisdom, highlighting the need to recognize symptoms that often fly under the radar and how we can blend mental health practices with biblical principles. We also dive into how different generations view mental health, plus we unpack the whole “spiritual warfare” topic.

It’s all about taking a compassionate, holistic approach to mental health in faith communities—because we could all use a little more understanding and support!

https://mentalwarriorconsulting.com/
Mental Health Courses > https://bit.ly/mentalhealthweirdinfluences
Book Link > https://amzn.to/4bgLBak

Mental Warrior course landing page for Unrefined that provides $50 off the course purchase exclusive for your listeners.
https://natalie-atwell.mykajabi.com/offers/pozLj3Rx/checkout

IG: instagram.com/mentalwarriorconsulting
IG: @drnatalieatwell
IG: @natalieatwellcounseling

Timestamps:
Discussion on Spiritual Bypassing (00:02:11)
Dr. Atwell's Background (00:03:13)
The Impact of "virus" on Mental Health (00:04:27)
Defining "Weird" in Mental Health (00:05:18)
Exploration of Atypical Symptoms (00:06:36)
Research and Resources (00:07:38)
The Importance of Discernment (00:08:36)
Personal Story of Deliverance (00:08:40)
Trauma in Deliverance Ministry (00:10:14)
Healing Modalities in Practice (00:11:04)
Assessment for Atypical Symptoms (00:12:47)
Skepticism in Therapy (00:14:13)
Discussion on Fraternal Orders (00:14:09)
Interest in Inner Healing (00:15:55)
Cultural Context of Mental Health (00:17:44)
Approach to Unbelievers (00:18:01)
Building Trust in Counseling (00:21:01)
Struggles with Mental Health (00:23:04)
The Role of Medicine in Healing (00:25:15)
Natalie's Perspective on Medicine (00:26:47)
Cultural Attitudes Towards Mental Health (00:28:57)
The Importance of a Holistic Approach (00:30:28)
The Complexity of Mental Health (00:33:15)
Understanding Demonic Influence (00:34:57)
Training Clinicians in Faith-Based Approaches (00:35:54)
The Need for Collaboration (00:37:12)
Exploring the Concept of Possession (00:39:42)
The Spectrum of Mental Health Issues (00:42:36)
Demons and Low-Level Forces (00:44:11)
Understanding Spiritual Attacks (00:44:35)
Demon in the Gaps (00:46:15)
Truth vs. Power Encounter (00:47:17)
Clinical Perspective on Spiritual Issues (00:47:50)
Teaching Identity (00:49:07)
Altruistic Thinking (00:50:12)
Mental Warrior Consulting (00:51:58)
Missions and Support (00:53:14)
Podcast and Community Engagement (00:54:31)
Supernatural Encounters (00:55:29)