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In this episode of the Space and Grace podcast, your host Ciara Helm, LCSW explores how faith can anchor us during challenging times through the inspiring story of Ashlyn Slamans-Ochoa. As a mother, wife, and public speaker, Ashlyn shares her journey of leaning on faith to thrive in ministry, overcome personal struggles, and build mental health resilience through God and the resources of support He sent her way. She discusses her unique experiences, including a complex medical journey with her daughter, and her mission to create authentic connections in all she does. If you're feeling overwhelmed in ministry or seeking to balance your spiritual and personal life, this episode is for you. Plus, join us in an interactive segment by sharing your experiences with balancing mental health and ministry. Text us through the show notes and be part of the conversation.

Connect with Ashlyn:

Website:  http://www.ashlynslamansochoa.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashlynslamansochoa/

*If you enjoy this podcast, it would mean so much if you RATE and DOWNLOAD and FOLLOW.

CHURCH LEADERS INTERESTED IN TRAINING WITH CIARA
You can train with Ciara by clicking this link: https://www.spaceandgrace.org/ally

STAY CONNECTED:
Join the Inbox Club💌 : Get free tools/inspiration on how to connect Faith & Mental Health (we won't spam you)
https://www.spaceandgrace.org/newsletter

Follow Ciara on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/church_mental_health?igsh=MWU5b2FtaHA2OXhlNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Florida Residents interested in scheduling EMDR therapy with Ciara:
https://hopefulheartcounseling.com

Disclaimer: This episode is intended for entertainment and educational purposes and should not be used to replace mental health counseling or advice from your own mental health counselor. If you live in Florida and are interested in becoming a formal client of Ciara's for mental health counseling, visit her private practice website link below.

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It's that time of the month, for our special segment: Clinician's Corner. Where we invite fellow experts in the field of mental health onto the show to "talk shop"!!

In this exciting episode of the Space & Grace Podcast, we are continuing the conversation around the Faith & Mental Health Connection. This episode features a special conversation with Laura Howe, LCSW, founder of Hope Made Strong and the Church Mental Health Summit. Laura, a licensed clinical social worker and trauma-informed counselor, shares her journey and expertise in supporting pastors to prevent burnout and navigate mental health challenges. Key topics include practical strategies for integrating mental health support in ministry, the role of peer support, and breaking the stigma around mental health in the church.

Join our host Ciara Helm, a licensed therapist and retired minister,  as she and Laura delve into the intersection of faith & mental health, offering valuable tools and real-life stories for church leaders.

Don't miss this inspiring conversation and be sure to check out Laura's work and sign up for your spot at the Church Mental Health Summit on 10/10/24 for more insights and resources.

Laura’s Links
Visit HopeMadeStrong.org for all the details and registration.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hope_made_strong/ 

Show Minutes:
00:00 Introduction to Faith and Mental Health
01:09 Meet Laura: A Transformative Conversation
02:55 Rapid Fire Questions with Laura
06:37 Laura's Journey and Burnout Experience
10:54 Connecting Faith and Mental Health in the Church
19:02 Supporting Pastors and Preventing Burnout
28:47 The Church Mental Health Summit
32:53 Final Words and Encouragement

*If you enjoy this podcast, it would mean so much if you RATE and DOWNLOAD and FOLLOW.

CHURCH LEADERS INTERESTED IN TRAINING WITH CIARA
You can train with Ciara by clicking this link: https://www.spaceandgrace.org/ally

STAY CONNECTED:
Join the Inbox Club💌 : Get free tools/inspiration on how to connect Faith & Mental Health (we won't spam you)
https://www.spaceandgrace.org/newsletter

Follow Ciara on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/church_mental_health?igsh=MWU5b2FtaHA2OXhlNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Florida Residents interested in scheduling EMDR therapy with Ciara:
https://hopefulheartcounseling.com

Disclaimer: This episode is intended for entertainment and educational purposes and should not be used to replace mental health counseling or advice from your own mental health counselor. If you live in Florida and are interested in becoming a formal client of Ciara's for mental health counseling, visit her private practice website link below.

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In this episode of the Space and Grace podcast, host Ciara Helm, LCSW a licensed therapist and retired minister, delves into the connection between faith and mental health.

Ciara shares her personal story of grief and the struggle to reconcile her faith with mental health challenges, particularly after the loss of her mother. She outlines the top three ways faith and mental health beautifully intertwine, emphasizing the importance of mental flexibility, authenticity, and resilience as supported by scripture.

This short and sweet episode also highlights a special tool for mindful prayer, encouraging listeners to integrate their faith and mental health practices. If you haven't already, Tap HERE to download your  Free 7-day Mindful Prayer Journal to join the community of other leaders who have started the 7 day challenge. 

*If you enjoy this podcast, it would mean so much if you RATE and DOWNLOAD and FOLLOW.

CHURCH LEADERS INTERESTED IN TRAINING WITH CIARA
You can train with Ciara by clicking this link: https://www.spaceandgrace.org/ally

STAY CONNECTED:
Join the Inbox Club💌 : Get free tools/inspiration on how to connect Faith & Mental Health (we won't spam you)
https://www.spaceandgrace.org/newsletter

Follow Ciara on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/church_mental_health?igsh=MWU5b2FtaHA2OXhlNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Florida Residents interested in scheduling EMDR therapy with Ciara:
https://hopefulheartcounseling.com

Disclaimer: This episode is intended for entertainment and educational purposes and should not be used to replace mental health counseling or advice from your own mental health counselor. If you live in Florida and are interested in becoming a formal client of Ciara's for mental health counseling, visit her private practice website link below.

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Have you ever felt like seeking therapy means you lack faith? It's a common feeling in the church, tune in as your Host Ciara, shares her personal journey of overcoming DA, you'll learn how therapy was crucial to her healing process and how evidence in the Bible proves that mental health struggles don't equate to faithlessness. 

Join Ciara on this episode of the Space and Grace podcast, where we unpack the biblical principles that support the use of therapy and support groups. With verses like Proverbs 27:17 and Matthew 5:4, we challenge the stigma around mental health in the church and discuss the transformative power of gratitude as a mental health tool rooted in scripture. This episode is a call to action for church leaders to embrace the God-given hope and support that professional help can provide.

In another insightful segment, we dive into the practice of mindfulness and its impact on mental health, particularly through Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Discover how MBSR, integrating ancient contemplative practices with Western medical and faith-based approaches, can reduce suffering and build resilience, balance, and peace of mind. We'll discuss practical techniques like body scans, attentional focus practices, and mindful movement, offering you a comprehensive guide to incorporating faith and mental health practices into your life. This episode provides a treasure trove of resources to help you start your mindfulness journey. Don't miss out on these valuable insights and practical tools to enhance your mental well-being through the lens of faith.

*Skip ahead for the trigger warning to 3:38*

💌 GET YOUR FREE PREVIEW  BY JOINING THE INBOX CLUB HERE

*If you enjoy this podcast, it would mean so much if you RATE and DOWNLOAD and FOLLOW.

CHURCH LEADERS INTERESTED IN TRAINING WITH CIARA
You can train with Ciara by clicking this link: https://www.spaceandgrace.org/ally

STAY CONNECTED:
Join the Inbox Club💌 : Get free tools/inspiration on how to connect Faith & Mental Health (we won't spam you)
https://www.spaceandgrace.org/newsletter

Follow Ciara on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/church_mental_health?igsh=MWU5b2FtaHA2OXhlNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Florida Residents interested in scheduling EMDR therapy with Ciara:
https://hopefulheartcounseling.com

Disclaimer: This episode is intended for entertainment and educational purposes and should not be used to replace mental health counseling or advice from your own mental health counselor. If you live in Florida and are interested in becoming a formal client of Ciara's for mental health counseling, visit her private practice website link below.

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Welcome to Season 2 of the Podcast Formerly Known as the Working Through It! Podcast. 

Join your host Ciara Helm. as she kicks off the season sharing her heart about where she has been and her own healing journey while navigating when the miracle healing doesn't come. 

If you are struggling with mental health and the shame that surrounds it, this short and unedited  episode is for you!

*If you enjoy this podcast, it would mean so much if you RATE and DOWNLOAD and FOLLOW.

CHURCH LEADERS INTERESTED IN TRAINING WITH CIARA
You can train with Ciara by clicking this link: https://www.spaceandgrace.org/ally

STAY CONNECTED:
Join the Inbox Club💌 : Get free tools/inspiration on how to connect Faith & Mental Health (we won't spam you)
https://www.spaceandgrace.org/newsletter

Follow Ciara on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/church_mental_health?igsh=MWU5b2FtaHA2OXhlNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Florida Residents interested in scheduling EMDR therapy with Ciara:
https://hopefulheartcounseling.com

Disclaimer: This episode is intended for entertainment and educational purposes and should not be used to replace mental health counseling or advice from your own mental health counselor. If you live in Florida and are interested in becoming a formal client of Ciara's for mental health counseling, visit her private practice website link below.

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Hey, friend! We've got some exciting news to share – your favorite podcast is getting a makeover! Welcome to the fresh and revamped Space & Grace Podcast, your ultimate hangout for all things faith and mental wellness. Don't worry, we're still the same warm and welcoming space you know and love – just with a sparkling new vibe.

Ciara Helm, LCSW here, your host from our good old Working Through IT! podcast. Well, we've decided to refresh things and dive even deeper into something we are super passionate about: Faith, Mental Health and Ministry.

Here's the best part – we are still going to be breaking down tough topics on mental health including our Clinician's Corner where I bring on other licensed therapists to teach and try out different types of therapy. 

Plus, all those heart-to-heart chats you've enjoyed in the past aren't going anywhere! Our past episodes will still be right here, ready to uplift and inspire you whenever you need a boost.

Get ready for more of those upbeat, soul-nurturing conversations where faith meets mental wellness. We're talking about the real stuff, embracing life's challenges, and celebrating every radiant moment in between. Think of it as catching up with an old friend over a cup of your favorite brew.

So whether you're looking for practical advice, a dose of positivity, or simply a reminder that you're not alone on this journey, the Space & Grace Podcast is here for you. Let's dive in together, laugh a little, learn a lot, and create a space where grace shines brightly.

Tune in and let's keep this beautiful journey rolling – old episodes, fresh insights, and all the good vibes you've come to love. Can't wait to reconnect with you soon!

Cheers to this exciting new chapter,
Ciara and the Space & Grace Podcast crew

*If you enjoy this podcast, it would mean so much if you RATE and DOWNLOAD and FOLLOW.

CHURCH LEADERS INTERESTED IN TRAINING WITH CIARA
You can train with Ciara by clicking this link: https://www.spaceandgrace.org/ally

STAY CONNECTED:
Join the Inbox Club💌 : Get free tools/inspiration on how to connect Faith & Mental Health (we won't spam you)
https://www.spaceandgrace.org/newsletter

Follow Ciara on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/church_mental_health?igsh=MWU5b2FtaHA2OXhlNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Florida Residents interested in scheduling EMDR therapy with Ciara:
https://hopefulheartcounseling.com

Disclaimer: This episode is intended for entertainment and educational purposes and should not be used to replace mental health counseling or advice from your own mental health counselor. If you live in Florida and are interested in becoming a formal client of Ciara's for mental health counseling, visit her private practice website link below.

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We are back from our break and ready to be courageously curious about life after trauma.

Everyone Experiences Things Differently. If Your Traumatic Past Is Still Impacting Your Daily Life, There Might Be Something In That To Be Curious About.

🧠Today Ciara  Will Break Down  The 4 Types Of Trauma Responses To Set You On A Path Of Healing. 

⚠️Trigger Warning- Talk about Abu$e and CST.

Let's Get Curious!

*If you enjoy this podcast, it would mean so much if you RATE and DOWNLOAD and FOLLOW.

CHURCH LEADERS INTERESTED IN TRAINING WITH CIARA
You can train with Ciara by clicking this link: https://www.spaceandgrace.org/ally

STAY CONNECTED:
Join the Inbox Club💌 : Get free tools/inspiration on how to connect Faith & Mental Health (we won't spam you)
https://www.spaceandgrace.org/newsletter

Follow Ciara on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/church_mental_health?igsh=MWU5b2FtaHA2OXhlNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Florida Residents interested in scheduling EMDR therapy with Ciara:
https://hopefulheartcounseling.com

Disclaimer: This episode is intended for entertainment and educational purposes and should not be used to replace mental health counseling or advice from your own mental health counselor. If you live in Florida and are interested in becoming a formal client of Ciara's for mental health counseling, visit her private practice website link below.

Send us a text

Welcome back to another Clinician's Corner segment on the podcast, the segment where we bring on another fellow therapist to teach us about a new or different type of therapy.  Let me tell you,  we have an interesting form of mental health therapy to talk about today... Biofeedback therapy!!!

Our host Ciara Helm, LCSW had the opportunity to sit down with Tisheila Justice, LCSW Owner and Therapist of Growth and Wellness MHC. What an honor it was to have her on the show and learn all about one of her specialties: biofeedback therapy. If you struggle with connecting with your own feelings, reuglating your emotions or recognizing physical body cues, this may be the therapy for you. Let's get into it!!


To connect with Tisheila:

For therapy: https://growthandwellnessmhc.com/ 
Social Media:https://www.instagram.com/growthandwellnessmhc/

Sites mentioned in today's episode:
AAPB: https://aapb.org/
BCI: https://www.bcia.org/
https://www.biofeedback.org/

*If you enjoy this podcast, it would mean so much if you RATE and DOWNLOAD and FOLLOW.

CHURCH LEADERS INTERESTED IN TRAINING WITH CIARA
You can train with Ciara by clicking this link: https://www.spaceandgrace.org/ally

STAY CONNECTED:
Join the Inbox Club💌 : Get free tools/inspiration on how to connect Faith & Mental Health (we won't spam you)
https://www.spaceandgrace.org/newsletter

Follow Ciara on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/church_mental_health?igsh=MWU5b2FtaHA2OXhlNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Florida Residents interested in scheduling EMDR therapy with Ciara:
https://hopefulheartcounseling.com

Disclaimer: This episode is intended for entertainment and educational purposes and should not be used to replace mental health counseling or advice from your own mental health counselor. If you live in Florida and are interested in becoming a formal client of Ciara's for mental health counseling, visit her private practice website link below.

Send us a text

How can we not talk about Black love for an episode that is on Valentines day during BLACK HISTORY MONTH?! I want to encourage you, if you are or are not a part of the black community, the discussion of black love is for everyone. Debra Elana is back on the show and truly speaks from her own experience as a single adult black woman in her 30's. We hope as you  listen you not only learn but build connection to the struggles of the black community and overcoming limiting stereo types.

Let's dive in!

To follow Debra and her music/acting career: https://www.instagram.com/debra_elana/

*If you enjoy this podcast, it would mean so much if you RATE and DOWNLOAD and FOLLOW.

CHURCH LEADERS INTERESTED IN TRAINING WITH CIARA
You can train with Ciara by clicking this link: https://www.spaceandgrace.org/ally

STAY CONNECTED:
Join the Inbox Club💌 : Get free tools/inspiration on how to connect Faith & Mental Health (we won't spam you)
https://www.spaceandgrace.org/newsletter

Follow Ciara on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/church_mental_health?igsh=MWU5b2FtaHA2OXhlNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Florida Residents interested in scheduling EMDR therapy with Ciara:
https://hopefulheartcounseling.com

Disclaimer: This episode is intended for entertainment and educational purposes and should not be used to replace mental health counseling or advice from your own mental health counselor. If you live in Florida and are interested in becoming a formal client of Ciara's for mental health counseling, visit her private practice website link below.

Send us a text

This week we have a unique episode of Clinican's Corner, the segment where I get to sit down with a fellow therapist and talk about a different type of mental health treatment or diagnosis. This week I sat down with Carly the owner of The Counseling Nook and she shared her own experience with Misophonia. Well this is not a form of diagnosis Carly shares how common it is and helps spread awareness for anyone else who is affected emotionally by common sounds — usually those made by others, and usually ones that other people don't pay attention to.

Carly's links:
https://www.instagram.com/the.counseling.nook/
https://www.thecounselingnook.com/contact

*If you enjoy this podcast, it would mean so much if you RATE and DOWNLOAD and FOLLOW.

CHURCH LEADERS INTERESTED IN TRAINING WITH CIARA
You can train with Ciara by clicking this link: https://www.spaceandgrace.org/ally

STAY CONNECTED:
Join the Inbox Club💌 : Get free tools/inspiration on how to connect Faith & Mental Health (we won't spam you)
https://www.spaceandgrace.org/newsletter

Follow Ciara on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/church_mental_health?igsh=MWU5b2FtaHA2OXhlNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Florida Residents interested in scheduling EMDR therapy with Ciara:
https://hopefulheartcounseling.com

Disclaimer: This episode is intended for entertainment and educational purposes and should not be used to replace mental health counseling or advice from your own mental health counselor. If you live in Florida and are interested in becoming a formal client of Ciara's for mental health counseling, visit her private practice website link below.