In this episode of The Christian Clinician, host Dr. Tanya Paynter sits down with Camille McDaniel, a licensed professional counselor from Georgia and founder of Healing Psychotherapy Practices of Georgia. With over 15 years of experience, Camille McDaniel specializes in helping individuals navigate mental health challenges, work-related stress, trauma, and faith-based reconciliation. The conversation explores the distinction between being a Christian counselor versus a counselor who happens to be Christian, and the importance of integrating faith into therapeutic work. Camille McDaniel shares her journey from childhood aspirations to her current calling, highlights common themes of fear and control among her clients, and emphasizes choosing faith over fear when addressing life’s anxieties and uncertainties. The episode is rich with advice on surrendering control, waiting on God’s timing, and redefining success by God’s standards.

Today's Action Steps

• Identify an accountability partner to support you as you practice surrendering your worries and plans to God.
• Begin each day with a simple prayer asking God to help you fully surrender your mind, body, and heart.
• When you “fall” or find yourself struggling to let go, practice self-compassion and avoid harsh self-judgment.
• Keep Bible verses about overcoming fear and relying on God’s strength visible as daily reminders of His promises.
• Regularly check in with your accountability partner and reflect on God’s faithfulness in both big and small decisions.

Resources Mentioned in Today's Episode

• Healing Psychotherapy Practices of Georgia: www.healingpsychotherapyga.com

Episode Timestamps

02:08 – Camille McDaniel shares her childhood interest in psychology and path to counseling

04:52 – Specializations and client challenges, including anxiety, trauma, and spiritual struggles

07:10 – Discussion: Christian counselor vs. Christian who counsels

09:53 – Integrating faith into the counseling process

13:37 – Handling differences in beliefs and nonjudgmental counseling environments

18:05 – Common themes: anxiety, fear, and loss of control in today’s culture

20:26 – Surrendering goals and waiting on God’s guidance

23:21 – Rethinking success from a Christian perspective

29:23 – Physical, mental, and spiritual costs of self-reliance

36:00 – Practical steps for surrender: accountability, prayer, scripture, and compassion

41:02 – Small acts of obedience and God’s care in daily decisions

44:52 – Where to find Camille McDaniel for counseling

45:31 – Final advice: focus on God’s definition of success and faith over fear

About the Host

Dr. Tanya Paynter is the host of The Christian Clinician, where she brings together faith and evidence-based medicine to revitalize your health and renew your faith. With a passion for combining wellness expertise and Christian scholarship, she helps listeners understand how their relationship with God can shape all aspects of their wellbeing.

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