If there's one thing every parent of girls knows, it's this: emotions can run deep, wide, and loud. From tearful meltdowns to dramatic outbursts, our daughters' feelings can often feel like tidal waves that threaten to pull the whole household under. But what if those very moments weren't interruptions to parenting—but opportunities for discipleship?

In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, host Patti Garibay, Founder & Executive Director Emeritus of American Heritage Girls, sits down with licensed professional counselor and bestselling author Michelle Nietert to unpack how parents can guide their daughters through big emotions with both compassion and Biblical truth. Drawing from decades of experience as a counselor, school crisis responder, and mom, Michelle offers practical insights for helping girls process sadness, fear, and anxiety while building emotional resilience that's rooted in Christ.

You'll hear encouragement for the mom who feels like her daughter is drowning in emotions, guidance on discerning when drama signals deeper emotional needs, and everyday ways parents can connect spiritual discipleship to emotional growth. From playground drama to teenage friendship struggles, Michelle reminds us that while the world may tell girls to be ruled by their feelings, God calls them to bring those feelings to Him.

Scripture References:

• Psalm 34:18 – "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

• 2 Timothy 1:7 – "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."

• Philippians 4:6–7 – "Do not be anxious about anything… and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

• Galatians 5:22–23 – The fruit of the Spirit, including self-control. This conversation will leave you equipped with tools, reassured by truth, and reminded that you are not alone in raising emotionally healthy, Godly girls.

This conversation will leave you equipped with tools, reassured by truth, and reminded that you are not alone in raising emotionally healthy, Godly girls.

You can learn more about Michelle and her work at michellenietert.com

Explore more resources to raise girls rooted in Christ at raisinggodlygirls.com.

To find or start an AHG Troop in your area, visit americanheritagegirls.org.