AI Chatbots and Mental Health Support: Are They Helpful or Dangerous? As AI is increasingly prevalent in our day-to-day lives, this presents a meaningful opportunity for faith communities or organizations to have a conversation about equipping young individuals to support and comfort one another within a faith-based setting. Because no one should walk this journey alone. 🦋

In Season 3, Episode 15 of the Madness & Grace Podcast, hosts Matthew Stanford, Ph.D., and Madeline Stiers, Ph.D., LCSW-S, dive into this important topic. This episode offers clarity, compassion, and hope.

🌟 Know someone who could use a little hope today? Sharing this episode and the podcast is a meaningful way to extend hope to those who may be struggling with mental health concerns. 💙

If you have a question or topic you'd like for us to address in an upcoming episode, please email us at [email protected].

________________

HHCI The Hope Line
Are you in need of free mental health support? Call our Hope Line to receive up to 30 minutes of free mental health coaching over the phone and receive referrals from our vetted provider network.

Open daily from 5-8 PM CT
The Hope Line Number: (832) 831-7337
Available in English & Spanish
Learn more: https://hopeandhealingcenter.org/get-help-hope-line/

Reasons People Call:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Loneliness
• Relationship challenges
• Work stress
• Recent trauma
• Help finding free or affordable mental health resources

________________

Explore the blog: Why AI Shouldn't Replace Human Empathy in the Helping Professions https://bit.ly/42zMt8m

________________

Empower Faith Communities Training

Let your faith community lead the way in breaking the silence. Your faith community can be more than a place of gathering, it can be a safe haven for those navigating life’s deepest struggles.

Our FREE Empower Faith Communities Training equips pastors, ministry leaders, and faith organizations to respond with compassion, wisdom, and hope. Available in both English and Spanish. 

You’ll learn how to:

• Recognize the signs of mental distress
• Relate with empathy and understanding
• Refer to professional care
• Restore through supportive community

💻  Start your training today and become a source of hope and healing in your faith community: https://bit.ly/4hKo6tl

________________

Learn more about the Hope and Healing Center & Institute at HHCI.org

Learn more about our mental health training program, Gateway to Hope University (GTHU), at GatewaytoHopeUniversity.org. GTHU offers evidence-based mental and behavioral health training through our Learning Portal, resources, and ongoing support to individuals, faith communities, schools, and workplaces. Visit https://learn.gthu.org/ to explore our trainings and start your transformative journey today!

Follow us and stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Did you know many people turn to a faith leader first when facing mental health challenges? In Season 3, Episode 14 of the Madness & Grace Podcast, hosts Matthew Stanford, Ph.D., and Madeline Stiers, Ph.D., LCSW-S, dive into the topic of Lay Counseling and Pastoral Care: When to Seek Professional Help. 

They emphasize the importance of lay counseling, pastoral care, and proactive support within faith communities.

🌟 There's no better place to find hope than a faith community. Share this episode with pastors or decision makers to start the conversation about mental health in your faith community or organization. 💙

If you have a question or topic you'd like for us to address in an upcoming episode, please email us at [email protected].

________________

HHCI The Hope Line
Are you in need of free mental health support? Call our Hope Line to receive up to 30 minutes of free mental health coaching over the phone and receive referrals from our vetted provider network.

Open daily from 5-8 PM CT
The Hope Line Number: (832) 831-7337
Available in English & Spanish
Learn more: https://hopeandhealingcenter.org/get-help-hope-line/

Reasons People Call:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Loneliness
• Relationship challenges
• Work stress
• Recent trauma
• Help finding free or affordable mental health resources

________________

Empower Faith Communities Training

Let your faith community lead the way in breaking the silence. Your faith community can be more than a place of gathering, it can be a safe haven for those navigating life’s deepest struggles.

Our FREE Empower Faith Communities Training equips pastors, ministry leaders, and faith organizations to respond with compassion, wisdom, and hope. Available in both English and Spanish. 

You’ll learn how to:

• Recognize the signs of mental distress
• Relate with empathy and understanding
• Refer to professional care
• Restore through supportive community

💻  Start your training today and become a source of hope and healing in your faith community: https://bit.ly/4hKo6tl

________________

Learn more about the Hope and Healing Center & Institute at HHCI.org

Learn more about our mental health training program, Gateway to Hope University (GTHU), at GatewaytoHopeUniversity.org. GTHU offers evidence-based mental and behavioral health training through our Learning Portal, resources, and ongoing support to individuals, faith communities, schools, and workplaces. Visit https://learn.gthu.org/ to explore our trainings and start your transformative journey today!

Follow us and stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Is Mental Illness a Spiritual Battle? Mental health struggles affect people in every aspect of life and call for a holistic approach—one that addresses the physical, mental, spiritual, and relational aspects of our being. 🦋

In Season 3, Episode 13 of the Madness & Grace Podcast, hosts Matthew Stanford, Ph.D., and Madeline Stiers, Ph.D., LCSW-S, explore this powerful question—tune in for a meaningful conversation.

•  Faith can be a foundation for healing and recovery, but compassion and understanding are essential in faith communities. 
• Stigma and shame hurt those who are suffering—mental illness is not a sign of weak faith. 
• Both spiritual leaders and mental health professionals have vital roles in supporting people on their journey toward hope and healing. 

🌟 Know someone who could use a little hope today? Sharing this episode and the podcast is a meaningful way to extend hope to those who may be struggling with mental health concerns. 💙

If you have a question or topic you'd like for us to address in an upcoming episode, please email us at [email protected].

________________

HHCI The Hope Line
Are you in need of free mental health support? Call our Hope Line to receive up to 30 minutes of free mental health coaching over the phone and receive referrals from our vetted provider network.

Open daily from 5-8 PM CT
The Hope Line Number: (832) 831-7337
Available in English & Spanish
Learn more: https://hopeandhealingcenter.org/get-help-hope-line/

Reasons People Call:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Loneliness
• Relationship challenges
• Work stress
• Recent trauma
• Help finding free or affordable mental health resources

________________

Matthew Stanford, Ph.D. is the author of five books, including:

• Grace for the Afflicted: A Clinical and Biblical Perspective on Mental Illness – https://amzn.to/4kGMHRi
• Madness & Grace: A Practical Guide for Pastoral Care and Serious Mental Illness (Spirituality and Mental Health) – https://amzn.to/4ltFGVd

________________

Our Gateway to Hope University Trainings are built to equip everyday people to recognize the signs of mental health struggles and respond with compassion, confidence, and care. Trainings are available in English and Spanish.

💻 Start your journey today: https://bit.ly/4elT2hR

________________

Learn more about the Hope and Healing Center & Institute at HHCI.org

Learn more about our mental health training program, Gateway to Hope University (GTHU), at GatewaytoHopeUniversity.org. GTHU offers evidence-based mental and behavioral health training through our Learning Portal, resources, and ongoing support to individuals, faith communities, schools, and workplaces. Visit https://learn.gthu.org/ to explore our trainings and start your transformative journey today!

Follow us and stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

How do you support someone you love when they’re struggling with mental illness? It starts with being there for those challenging conversations, having a strong support system, being present to listen, and stepping in as a caregiver when needed. Remember, you are not alone. 🦋

In Season 3, Episode 12 of the Madness & Grace Podcast, hosts Matthew Stanford, Ph.D., and Madeline Stiers, Ph.D., LCSW-S, dive into this heartfelt conversation about Supporting a Loved One with Mental Illness.

Tune in as we share how to:
💙 Understand what mental illness is
💙 Offer meaningful support
💙 Set healthy boundaries                 
💙 Take care of yourself
💙 Navigate the challenges of caregiving or loving someone with mental health struggles

Whether you're a caregiver, family member, friend, or someone who simply wants to offer support, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and hope. Because no one should walk this journey alone. 

🌟 Know someone who could use a little hope today? Sharing this episode and the podcast is a meaningful way to extend hope to those who may be struggling with mental health concerns. 💙

If you have a question or topic you'd like for us to address in an upcoming episode, please email us at [email protected].

________________

HHCI The Hope Line
Are you in need of free mental health support? Call our Hope Line to receive up to 30 minutes of free mental health coaching over the phone and receive referrals from our vetted provider network.

Open daily from 5-8 PM CT
The Hope Line Number: (832) 831-7337
Available in English & Spanish
Learn more: https://hopeandhealingcenter.org/get-help-hope-line/

Reasons People Call:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Loneliness
• Relationship challenges
• Work stress
• Recent trauma
• Help finding free or affordable mental health resources

________________

Our Gateway to Hope University Trainings are built to equip everyday people to recognize the signs of mental health struggles and respond with compassion, confidence, and care. Trainings are available in English and Spanish.

💻 Start your journey today: https://bit.ly/4elT2hR

________________

Learn more about the Hope and Healing Center & Institute at HHCI.org

Learn more about our mental health training program, Gateway to Hope University (GTHU), at GatewaytoHopeUniversity.org. GTHU offers evidence-based mental and behavioral health training through our Learning Portal, resources, and ongoing support to individuals, faith communities, schools, and workplaces. Visit https://learn.gthu.org/ to explore our trainings and start your transformative journey today!

Follow us and stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

How do you engage with someone who shows no remorse, lacks empathy, and manipulates others—while still setting healthy boundaries and avoiding enabling harmful behavior?

These are tough, emotional questions people face when navigating relationships affected by Antisocial Personality Disorder or Psychopathy.

In Season 3, Episode 11 of the Madness & Grace Podcast, hosts Matthew Stanford, Ph.D., and Madeline Stiers, Ph.D., LCSW-S, dive into a deep and compassionate conversation about these complex and often misunderstood conditions. 

🎧 Tune in as we share:

     🦋 Clinical insights

     🦋 How to recognize the signs and set healthy boundaries

     🦋 Guidance for responding with both clarity and compassion

If you or someone you know is affected, working with a therapist and building a support system can help you better understand these conditions and navigate your relationship with empathy and strength. 💙

If you have a question or topic you'd like for us to address in an upcoming episode, please email us at [email protected].

________________

HHCI The Hope Line
Are you in need of free mental health support? Call our Hope Line to receive up to 30 minutes of free mental health coaching over the phone and receive referrals from our vetted provider network.

Open daily from 5-8 PM CT
The Hope Line Number: (832) 831-7337
Available in English & Spanish
Learn more: https://hopeandhealingcenter.org/get-help-hope-line/

Reasons People Call:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Loneliness
• Relationship challenges
• Work stress
• Recent trauma
• Help finding free or affordable mental health resources

________________

Be the difference in someone’s story. Gateway to Hope University provides evidence-based training to prepare you as a Mental Health Coach. This Mental Health Day we are making it possible for you to access this life-changing program.

💻 Start your journey today: https://bit.ly/mental-health-coach

• Use discount code: MHAwareness
• Valid: October 6 - October 18, 2025

________________

Learn more about the Hope and Healing Center & Institute at HHCI.org

Learn more about our mental health training program, Gateway to Hope University (GTHU), at GatewaytoHopeUniversity.org. GTHU offers evidence-based mental and behavioral health training through our Learning Portal, resources, and ongoing support to individuals, faith communities, schools, and workplaces. Visit https://learn.gthu.org/ to explore our trainings and start your transformative journey today!

Follow us and stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

🤝 Have you ever felt truly understood by someone who’s walked a similar path?

In Season 3, Episode 10 of the Madness & Grace Podcast, hosts Matthew Stanford, Ph.D., and Madeline Stiers, Ph.D., LCSW-S, dive into The Benefits of Support Groups: Finding Strength in Community. 

Support groups are safe spaces where people with shared experiences provide each other with encouragement, support, comfort, and advice. They’re a vital part of healing and recovery, and a powerful reminder that you are not alone. 💙

Whether you're struggling with mental health challenges, seeking addiction recovery, or supporting a loved one on their healing journey, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and hope. 

If you're looking for support groups, call The Hope Line: (832) 831-7337 or the Hope and Healing Center & Institute: 713-871-1004.

If you have a question or topic you'd like for us to address in an upcoming episode, please email us at [email protected].

________________

HHCI The Hope Line
Are you in need of free mental health support? Call our Hope Line to receive up to 30 minutes of free mental health coaching over the phone and receive referrals from our vetted provider network.

Open daily from 5-8 PM CT
The Hope Line Number: (832) 831-7337
Available in English & Spanish
Learn more: https://hopeandhealingcenter.org/get-help-hope-line/

Reasons People Call:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Loneliness
• Relationship challenges
• Work stress
• Recent trauma
• Help finding free or affordable mental health resources

________________

Gateway to Hope University Mental Health Coach Training

Explore Matthew Stanford, Ph.D.'s evidence-based Mental Health Coach Training. With the growing mental health crisis impacting communities everywhere, the need for trained Mental Health Coaches has never been greater.

This transformative program equips individuals and faith communities to compassionately support those experiencing mental distress, offer practical guidance, and serve as trusted mental health resources within their organizations. 

• Evidence-Based Training: Master core coaching skills like empathy, de-escalation, and referrals, plus strategies to lead mental health efforts in your community.
• Specialty Courses: Focus your training in Addiction & Behavioral Health Disorders, Aging & Elder Care, Child & Adolescent Mental Health, and Trauma.
• Flexible Learning: Finish in under 12 hours or go at your own pace with progress tracking.
• Ongoing Support: Get personalized guidance from our Community Education Team.
• Connected Community: Access forums, events, and a network of fellow certified coaches.
• English: https://learn.gthu.org/en/courses/mental-health-coach/
• Spanish: https://learn.gthu.org/es/courses/coach-de-la-salud-mental/

________________

Learn more about Hope and Healing Center & Institute at HHCI.org and our mental health training program, Gateway to Hope University (GTHU), at GatewaytoHopeUniversity.org. GTHU offers evidence-based mental and behavioral health training through our Learning Portal, resources, and ongoing support to individuals, faith communities, schools, and workplaces. Visit https://learn.gthu.org/ to explore our trainings and start your transformative journey!

How do I know if I'm depressed? It's one of the most common conversations we have. People want to know how to recognize depression in themselves, a friend, or a loved one. 

In Season 3, Episode 9 of the Madness & Grace Podcast, hosts Matthew Stanford, Ph.D., and Madeline Stiers, Ph.D., LCSW-S, dive into the topic of How Do I Know If I’m Depressed? Signs and Spiritual Insights. We'll explore the clinical signs, emotional and behavioral symptoms, and spiritual impacts of depression.

Whether you're navigating depression or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and hope. 

You are not alone. 🦋 Because everyone deserves hope. 💙

🌟 Know someone who could use a little hope today? Sharing this episode and the podcast is a meaningful way to extend hope to those who may be struggling with mental health concerns. 💙

If you have a question or topic you'd like for us to address in an upcoming episode, please email us at [email protected].

________________

HHCI The Hope Line
Are you in need of free mental health support? Call our Hope Line to receive up to 30 minutes of free mental health coaching over the phone and receive referrals from our vetted provider network.

Open daily from 5-8 PM CT
The Hope Line Number: (832) 831-7337
Available in English & Spanish
Learn more: https://hopeandhealingcenter.org/get-help-hope-line/

Reasons People Call:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Loneliness
• Relationship challenges
• Work stress
• Recent trauma
• Help finding free or affordable mental health resources

________________

For resources related to depression, please visit:

• Grace for the Afflicted: A Clinical and Biblical Perspective on Mental Illness – https://amzn.to/4kGMHRi
• Grace for the Children: Finding Hope in the Midst of Child and Adolescent Mental Illness – https://amzn.to/4lxPk9B
• Madness & Grace: A Practical Guide for Pastoral Care and Serious Mental Illness (Spirituality and Mental Health) – https://amzn.to/4ltFGVd

________________

Learn more about the Hope and Healing Center & Institute at HHCI.org

Learn more about our mental health training program, Gateway to Hope University (GTHU), at GatewaytoHopeUniversity.org. GTHU offers evidence-based mental and behavioral health training through our Learning Portal, resources, and ongoing support to individuals, faith communities, schools, and workplaces. Visit https://learn.gthu.org/ to explore our trainings and start your transformative journey today!

Follow us and stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Tune in to a special episode of the Madness & Grace Podcast! Have you ever wondered how your faith community could make a real difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges?

Don’t miss this powerful conversation with our host, Matthew Stanford, Ph.D., and guest speakers Kathy Smith and Tanya Melendez, as they share their journey behind a thriving mental health ministry. Together, they explore how you can make a lasting impact in your own faith community or organization.

🌟 Kathy has been an instrumental part of launching and sustaining the Mental Health Ministry at Greater Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church. She’s an experienced Mental Health Coach and a Transformed Group Leader through Gateway to Hope University. 

🌟 Tanya is Gateway to Hope University's Community Education Manager and a certified Mental Health Coach. She's an active member of her church, where she leads a women’s small group and is involved in the Spanish ministry.

Whether you’re a leader, volunteer, or simply someone passionate about helping others, this episode is for you. Your community needs you. Let’s build something that truly matters. 💙

If you have a question or topic you'd like for us to address in an upcoming episode, please email us at [email protected].

________________

Gateway to Hope University Mental Health Coach Training
Explore Matthew Stanford, Ph.D.'s evidence-based Mental Health Coach Training. With the growing mental health crisis impacting communities everywhere, the need for trained Mental Health Coaches has never been greater.

This transformative program equips individuals and faith communities to compassionately support those experiencing mental distress, offer practical guidance, and serve as trusted mental health resources within their organizations. 

• Evidence-Based Training: Master core coaching skills like empathy, de-escalation, and referrals, plus strategies to lead mental health efforts in your community.
• Specialty Courses: Focus your training in Addiction & Behavioral Health Disorders, Aging & Elder Care, Child & Adolescent Mental Health, and Trauma.
• Flexible Learning: Finish in under 12 hours or go at your own pace with progress tracking.
• Ongoing Support: Get personalized guidance from our Community Education Team.
• Connected Community: Access forums, events, and a network of fellow certified coaches.
• English: https://learn.gthu.org/en/courses/mental-health-coach/
• Spanish: https://learn.gthu.org/es/courses/coach-de-la-salud-mental/

________________

Learn more about the Hope and Healing Center & Institute at HHCI.org

Learn more about our mental health training program, Gateway to Hope University (GTHU), at GatewaytoHopeUniversity.org. GTHU offers evidence-based mental and behavioral health training through our Learning Portal, resources, and ongoing support to individuals, faith communities, schools, and workplaces. Visit https://learn.gthu.org/ to explore our trainings and start your transformative journey today!

Follow us and stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Can faith and therapy work together to bring healing to the body, mind, spirit, and relationships? In Season 3, Episode 8 of the Madness & Grace Podcast, hosts Matthew Stanford, Ph.D., and Madeline Stiers, Ph.D., LCSW-S, dive into Faith vs. Therapy: Can They Work Together? Both faith and therapy share the same goal of alleviating suffering and helping us find purpose and meaning in life.

If you have a question or topic you'd like for us to address in an upcoming episode, please email us at [email protected].

________________

HHCI The Hope Line
Are you in need of free mental health support? Call our Hope Line to receive up to 30 minutes of free mental health coaching over the phone and receive referrals from our vetted provider network.

Open daily from 5-8 PM CT
The Hope Line Number: (832) 831-7337
Available in English & Spanish
Learn more: https://hopeandhealingcenter.org/get-help-hope-line/

Reasons People Call:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Loneliness
• Relationship challenges
• Work stress
• Recent trauma
• Help finding free or affordable mental health resources

________________

Learn more about the Hope and Healing Center & Institute at HHCI.org

Learn more about our mental health training program, Gateway to Hope University (GTHU), at GatewaytoHopeUniversity.org. GTHU offers evidence-based mental and behavioral health training through our Learning Portal, resources, and ongoing support to individuals, faith communities, schools, and workplaces. Visit https://learn.gthu.org/ to explore our trainings and start your transformative journey today!

Follow us and stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Is social media helping or harming your mental health? In Season 3, Episode 7 of the Madness & Grace Podcast, hosts Matthew Stanford, Ph.D., and Madeline Stiers, Ph.D., LCSW-S, dive into Mental Health in the Digital Age: The Impact of Social Media. Learn how to create a healthier, more balanced digital environment that protects and supports your mental and emotional well-being. 

Remember: Moderation is key!

If you have a question or topic you'd like for us to address in an upcoming episode, please email us at [email protected].

________________

HHCI The Hope Line
Are you in need of free mental health support? Call our Hope Line to receive up to 30 minutes of free mental health coaching over the phone and receive referrals from our vetted provider network.

Open daily from 5-8 PM CT
The Hope Line Number: (832) 831-7337
Available in English & Spanish
Learn more: https://hopeandhealingcenter.org/get-help-hope-line/

Reasons People Call:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Loneliness
• Relationship challenges
• Work stress
• Recent trauma
• Help finding free or affordable mental health resources

________________

Learn more about the Hope and Healing Center & Institute at HHCI.org

Learn more about our mental health training program, Gateway to Hope University (GTHU), at GatewaytoHopeUniversity.org. GTHU offers evidence-based mental and behavioral health training through our Learning Portal, resources, and ongoing support to individuals, faith communities, schools, and workplaces. Visit https://learn.gthu.org/ to explore our trainings and start your transformative journey today!

Follow us and stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.