In this episode, Jenna puts Jenna on the spot and asks her to walk through, off the top of her head, what it really looks like to honor professional standards while staying grounded in Biblical truth. What unfolds is an honest, thoughtful conversation about the tension clinicians often feel between calling and code- between what we believe deeply and what we are ethically bound to practice. We talk through APA guidelines, how they protect both the client and the counselor, and where therapists can feel the quiet friction of wanting to bring more of their faith into the room. It is real, unscripted, and grounded in the kind of nuance that Christian counselors navigate every day, on how to remain clinically sound without losing the heart of why we do this work in the first place.

Listen in and enjoy!

Online Biblical Counseling - https://www.higherhopesonline.com/
Biblical Counseling Certification - https://www.higherhopesinstitute.com/

If you are in Texas and want to see Erin or Jenna, you can find them at 
https://www.RockwallHeathcounseling.com/

If you would like to schedule Erin or Jenna (or both of them!) to speak at your ministry event, please email [email protected]

HigherHopesOnline.com
HigherHopesInstitute.com

While Erin was off conquering the Alps (and probably finding life metaphors somewhere between the slopes and the snow), Jenna held down the mic with her husband Tim Meister and Dr. Sean Blackston for a conversation that feels equal parts origin story and behind-the-scenes look at the heart of Higher Hopes Online and Higher Hopes Institute. They dive into the calling that led them into Biblical counseling, the winding road that got them here, and the principles that shape how they care for others and themselves, along the way. It’s thoughtful, grounded, and quietly powerful… with just enough warmth and real-life honesty to remind you that this work isn’t just taught, it’s lived.

Links from today's show:
https://www.higherhopesonline.com/
https://www.higherhopeintitute.com/



HigherHopesOnline.com
HigherHopesInstitute.com

In this episode of He Said It First, Erin puts Jenna on the spot with the top five complaints couples bring into therapy—no script, no prep, just real conversation. From communication breakdowns to unmet expectations, we unpack what’s really beneath the surface. Expect insight, honesty, and a few laughs along the way. It’s the kind of conversation that might just make you rethink your own relationship dynamics.

Coffee on this episode: Lion's Head Coffee - Glory Blend https://lionsheadcoffee.com/

HigherHopesOnline.com
HigherHopesInstitute.com


HigherHopesOnline.com
HigherHopesInstitute.com

Season 2, Episode 2, Part 2 of He Said It First keeps the conversation rolling as Erin and Jenna unpack three ways to become a better Christian therapist, inspired by a Psychology Today article but viewed through the lens of faith, purpose, and the calling of Christian counseling. Along the way, they explore what it really means to live and practice within your God-given purpose, even when that purpose comes with a little tension.
  Coffee is flowing, laughter is plentiful, and Erin may or may not turn into a full-blown Chatty Cathy in this episode… but in her defense, when the topic is purpose, therapy, and Jesus, it’s hard not to have a lot to say. Jenna graciously lets the words flow while adding her usual wisdom, making this episode equal parts insight, humor, and the kind of conversation that feels like sitting down with good friends and a fresh cup of coffee. ☕

HigherHopesOnline.com
HigherHopesInstitute.com

Season 2 of He Said It First launches with energy, laughter, and Part 1 of a two-part conversation on “Seven Steps to a Better You.” Erin and Jenna blend Christian therapy insight with real-life honesty, giving both counselors and clients practical ways to grow while keeping grace at the center of the process. As always, the conversation is full of coffee, humor, and the kind of faith-centered perspective that makes meaningful change feel both possible and approachable. This season also brings big news with the debut of a brand-new theme song that perfectly captures the heart and personality of the show. Get ready to tap your toes and sing along - It is a fresh start, a fun beginning, and an invitation to step into growth together.










HigherHopesOnline.com
HigherHopesInstitute.com

Sometimes life is all over the place... like our microphones this episode. SORRY! We decided to publish, even though this does not meet our regular level of production. I mean, how can we not publish us talking about God and His word, right?? 
So, suffer along with us in this warbly-sounding episode of all things- it's a real schmoregessbourg this week!!!! :)

Jenna and Erin try to hold it together while they talk you through the importance of doing life... together. Listen in while they sip java, chortle, and talk through the importance of not going it alone in life, practice, or in general. 

Links:
https://www.timhortons.com/ - OH Canada, that's good coffee!!!!

https://www.HigherHopesInstitute.com
https://www.HigherHopesOnline.com
https://www.HigherHopesCounseling.com

HigherHopesOnline.com
HigherHopesInstitute.com

In this episode, Jenna and Erin dig into why it matters to “get in their business.”
Because when someone you love starts slipping under an unhealthy influence,
you’ll only see it if you’re close enough to notice.

PS: Erin fully recognizes she talks too much. She’s working on it… kind of.
PPS: Erin’s still talking. Jenna’s still waiting. It’s fine. 

HigheHopesInstitute.com  - Biblical Counseling Certification Program, Family Life Education programs, and Continuing Education for Mental Health Professionals. 

HigherHopesOnline.com - Biblical Counseling online.

HigherHopesOnline.com
HigherHopesInstitute.com

In Part 2 of the You Better Work episode, Erin and Jenna roll up their sleeves to talk about work—not just the nine-to-five grind, but the holy, hard work God designed us for. With their usual mix of humor and heart, they explore why doing the tough stuff is often the very path to healing and holiness. Christian counselors will find practical takeaways for guiding clients through conversations about discipline, purpose, and perseverance. And for listeners? Expect to be challenged, encouraged, and maybe even inspired to make some bold changes in your own daily walk and mindset.

Show Links mentioned in this episode: 
HigherHopesInstitute.com - for Christian Family Life, The Counselor Retreat in the fall of 2025, Clinical Continuing Education, and Biblical Counseling Certification information. 



HigherHopesOnline.com
HigherHopesInstitute.com

In this episode, we're brewing up a conversation straight from the pages of Psychology Today's September issue. Join us as we explore how children grow into fully developed humans and how both clinicians and parents can support that journey. And of course, we're throwing in a couple of fun coffee facts to keep things lively. Grab your favorite mug and settle in!

Links:
Psychology Today - Sept. 2025 Article  - Get Everything You Want
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/202509/get-everything-you-want

Coffee: 
This episode's coffee of choice: https://thebeancoffeecompany.com/collections/medium/products/organic-holiday-bean-vanilla-cinnamon-spice

Sponsors:
Higher Hopes Institute - HigherHopesInstitute.com
Higher Hopes Counseling - HigherHopesCounseling.com


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HigherHopesInstitute.com