In this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael welcomes Pastor Matt MacCollin to discuss the biblical approach to responding to crisis situations in the church. Matt shares his personal testimony of overcoming a traumatic past, including substance abuse and a life-changing car accident, which ultimately led him to faith and his current role as pastor at Salem Heights Church. They delve into addressing crises such as tragic accidents, sickness, adultery, abuse, and addiction, emphasizing the importance of prayer, careful listening, and the application of Scripture in counseling. Practical advice and key biblical passages are highlighted to equip listeners in providing effective crisis care.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:46 Matt MacCollin's Testimony

03:31 Journey to Pastoral Ministry

05:37 Responding to Crisis Situations

08:25 Practical Steps for Crisis Counseling

15:31 The Importance of Prayer and Wisdom in Counseling

16:51 Guiding with Wisdom and Prayer

17:09 The Importance of Slowing Down

17:23 The Power of Prayer in Crisis

18:34 Scriptural Guidance for Healing

21:37 Addressing Addiction and False Worship

22:10 Handling Adultery with Compassion

24:18 Practical Applications in Counseling

26:11 The Role of Theology in Crisis

29:47 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement

Episode Mentions
 
2026 National Called to Counsel Conference -  Register Now
The Most Excellent Way - Victory Over Addiction

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael returns with guest Kristin Silva Linder, an author and biblical counselor from Portland. The conversation delves into the theme, 'Wisdom Adorns the Shamed,' focusing on how wisdom and scriptural truths can address the impacts of trauma and shame. Kristin shares personal experiences and insights into helping individuals who feel unworthy or dirty on the inside by showing how God's promises beautify them. She discusses the importance of holding onto steadfast love and faithfulness to trust God's narrative over feelings of shame. The episode underscores that through leaning on Jesus and embodying His words, one can experience radiance, beautification, and joy despite the burdens of shame.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Introduction
01:23 Kristin Silva Linder's Background and Current Work
02:47 Exploring the Concept of Shame and Trauma
06:49 God's Response to Shame and Trauma
13:33 Practical Wisdom from Proverbs
18:17 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael discuss the topic of burnout among counselors, particularly those dealing with trauma cases. Joined by recurring guest Beth Claes, they explore how burnout can manifest, the personal and professional factors that contribute to it, and effective strategies for prevention. Beth shares her personal experiences with burnout, the importance of recognizing red flags, and the critical role of self-care and spiritual refuge. The conversation also delves into practical advice for counselors on maintaining a healthy soul and seeking support before reaching a tipping point.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:20 Guest Introduction and Topic Overview

00:44 Beth's Personal Experience with Burnout

03:18 Defining Burnout and Its Symptoms

04:34 Contributions to Burnout in Counseling

08:20 Recognizing and Addressing Burnout

15:12 Steps to Avoid Burnout

19:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of Speak the Truth, host Mike and special guest, Curtis Solomon discuss the themes of biblical truth and counseling. They explore the significance of God's presence through Psalms 46, emphasizing God's power and provision amid suffering and trauma. Curtis shares updates on his new ministry, the Sentinel Institute, which focuses on empirical research, resources, and reforms in biblical counseling. He also discusses his work at Boyce College and the Biblical Counseling Coalition. The conversation underscores the role of God’s presence and character in providing comfort and solace during times of pain and affliction.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
00:43 Casual Conversation and Personal Anecdotes
01:23 Conference Theme and Counseling Through Psalms
02:09 Curtis Solomon's Recent Transitions and New Ministry
03:38 The Sentinel Institute: Mission and Vision
09:01 Exploring Psalm 46:4–7 God's Presence in Our Pain
11:36 Historical Context and Symbolism in Psalm 46
20:33 New Covenant Perspective and Personal Application
24:05 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Episode Mentions
The Sentinel Institute
Boyce College
Southern Baptist Theological Seminary 

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike dives deep into understanding trauma from a biblical perspective with special guest John Henderson. The discussion focuses on defining trauma, interpreting it using scripture, and providing guidance for biblical counselors. Using Psalm 55, they explore how trauma affects individuals on an inner, outer, and interpersonal level, and how faith and Scripture can guide one through its challenges. The episode also provides practical advice for counselors on how to compassionately care for those experiencing trauma, and it suggests additional resources for further reading.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:20 Excitement for the Episode
00:37 Understanding Trauma Through a Biblical Lens
02:05 Psalm 55: A Biblical Perspective on Trauma
05:56 The Reality and Description of Trauma
09:29 The Dimensions and Development of Trauma
15:01 Interpersonal and Inner Person Effects of Trauma
24:06 Encouragement for Counselors
28:51 Resources and Conclusion

Episode Mentions
When its Trauma - Darby Strickland
I Have PTSD - Curtis Solomon
Suffering and Psalm 119 & Peace Be Still: Learning Psalm 131 by Heart (JBC Articles)

In this episode of Speak the Truth, the hosts delve into the attribute of God's holiness with Michael, discussing his entry titled 'Embracing Holy Perfection.' They explore the complexities of God's holiness, its association with redemption, moral purity, and how it shapes believers' lives. The conversation includes reflections on pertinent biblical texts, such as Isaiah 6:3-7 and Hebrews 12:10, discussing the distinction between striving for holiness and avoiding legalism. Practical counseling applications and session strategies are shared, emphasizing encountering God's holiness and its impact on personal transformation and worship.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:22 Discussing God's Holiness with Michael
01:49 Defining Holiness and Its Implications
03:53 Isaiah's Encounter with God's Holiness
05:28 Connecting Holiness to Counseling
08:13 Practical Applications of Holiness
09:56 Striving for Holiness in Daily Life
11:55 The Role of Discipline in Holiness
26:54 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Episode Mentions
Counseling Through God's Attributes - ABC RES 

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' the focus is on exploring God's steadfast love as highlighted in Lamentations 3. The hosts, Michael and Shauna, delve into how biblical counselors can educate, equip, and encourage counselees by reflecting on God's unceasing love and faithfulness. They discuss practical approaches for integrating these truths into counseling sessions to offer hope and stability, especially during times of suffering. The episode also emphasizes the importance of bringing the vertical truth of who God is to the horizontal struggles of everyday life.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:31 Discussing God's Steadfast Love

02:47 Reading and Reflecting on Lamentations 3

04:17 Applying God's Steadfast Love in Counseling

07:05 Encouraging Counselees with Biblical Truths

13:22 After Session Assignments and Practical Applications

19:17 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement

Episode Mentions
Counseling Through God's Attributes - ABC Resource

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael, Shauna, and Jeremy continue their mini-series on counseling through God's attributes, focusing on omnipresence. They discuss the importance of God's omnipresence, especially in counseling settings, drawing from Isaiah 41:10. They emphasize that God's always-present nature offers both comfort and conviction, reminding individuals they're never alone in their struggles. Shauna shares her personal journey as a biblical counselor, highlighting how key scripture verses have guided her and can be used in counseling sessions. The episode rounds off with practical after-session assignments, including scripture memorization and reflective worship music to reinforce the comforting truths about God's constant presence.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:24 Introducing the Counseling Mini-series
00:38 Exploring God's Omnipresence
01:09 The Importance of Key Scripture Verses
02:41 Isaiah 41:10 - God's Promises
04:25 Understanding God's Presence
07:22 Practical Applications in Counseling
15:41 Encouragement and Worship
19:17 Conclusion and Future Topics

Episode Resources
Counseling Through God's Attributes 

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' the host is joined by Shannon K. McCoy, an experienced biblical counselor, to discuss the topic of God's peace amidst life's anxieties from her contribution to the ABC Resource, Counseling Through God's Attributes. Shannon shares her life transition from San Diego, California to Spartanburg, South Carolina and her career as a cytology lab manager. The conversation delves into the heightened anxiety and how biblical counseling can address it by focusing on Philippians 4:6-9. They emphasize that peace is an active process tied to trust and obedience in God. Shannon highlights practical counseling techniques, such as daily scripture focus and thought journaling, to help individuals reframe their anxiety in light of God's character and promises.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:55 Shannon's Background and Journey
03:40 Discussing God's Peace and Anxiety
08:26 Practical Steps for Counseling
18:35 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement

Episode Mentions:
Counseling Through God's Attributes 

In this episode of Speak the Truth, host Mike welcomes guest Ellen Dykas, an ABC partner from Harvest USA. Ellen discusses the vital topic of 'God as Comforter' in biblical counseling, specifically referencing 2 Corinthians 1:3-6. The episode not only delves into Ellen's background and her work in discipleship and counseling but also offers a practical guide for counselors on integrating the concept of divine comfort into their sessions. Ellen emphasizes the importance of understanding God's comfort, engaging in meaningful dialogue with counselees, and applying Scripture to help those dealing with pain and suffering. The episode is a rich resource for both current counselors and those in training.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:33 Guest Introduction: Ellen Dykas
01:15 Ellen's Background and Ministry
03:09 God's Comfort in Counseling
06:42 Applying God's Comfort in Counseling Sessions
16:44 After Session Assignments and Reflections
20:48 Final Encouragement and Closing Remarks

Episode Mentions

• Wives Navigating Sexual Betrayal - Harvest USA 
• Counseling Through God's Attributes - ABC RES