Ask the Counselor by CCEF
Ask the Counselor by CCEF is a podcast where listeners submit questions about life, relationships, and emotional struggles. CCEF faculty respond with brief, thoughtful reflections grounded in Scripture and pastoral experience. Episodes address topics like marital conflict, parenting challenges, and finding hope in grief. The podcast is produced by the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation, which aims to bring Christ-centered care to counseling.
Episodes
What should I do when my conscience constantly condemns me?
Listen as Mike Emlet answers the question, "What should I do when my conscience constantly condemns me?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counselin
I wish my wife and I could be more sexually intimate but she's not interested. What do we do?
Listen as Aaron Sironi answers the question, "I wish my wife and I could be more sexually intimate but she's not interested. What do we do?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To
My spouse has OCD and it's very difficult for me. What do I do?
Listen as Mike Emlet answers the question, "My spouse has OCD and it's very difficult for me. What do I do?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical couns
I'm struggling to fit in. What do I do?
Listen as Esther Liu answers the question, "I'm struggling to fit in. What do I do?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more r
How do I help my friend who has stopped going to church because it causes her anxiety?
Listen as Ed Welch answers the question, "How do I help my friend who has stopped going to church because it causes her anxiety?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more
How do I wisely parent a defiant child?
Listen as Mike Emlet answers the question, "How do I wisely parent a defiant child?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more r
How do I deal with the grief of losing my spouse and facing the future alone?
Listen as Ed Welch answers the question, "How do I deal with the grief of losing my spouse and facing the future alone?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about bi
How do I engage in relationships when I'm limited by chronic illness?
Listen as Esther Liu answers the question, "How do I engage in relationships when I'm limited by chronic illness?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical
How do I make decisions and move forward while experiencing obsessive doubt?
Listen as Todd Stryd answers the question, "How do I make decisions and move forward while experiencing obsessive doubt?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about b
A loved one consistently shames me. How do I deal with this?
Listen as Lauren Whitman answers the question, "A loved one consistently shames me. How do I deal with this?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical coun
In the face of loss what does "grieving with hope" look like in the day-to-day?
Listen as Gunner Gundersen answers the question, "In the face of loss what does 'grieving with hope' look like in the day-to-day?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn mor
How do I trust the Lord when I have consistent PTSD-related nightmares?
Listen as Darby Strickland answers the question, "How do I trust the Lord when I have consistent PTSD-related nightmares?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about
How do I deal with anxiety and depression related to aging?
Listen as Mike Emlet answers the question, "How do I deal with anxiety and depression related to aging?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counselin
How do I stop dark intrusive thoughts that scare me?
Listen as Mike Emlet answers the question, "I struggle with dark intrusive thoughts that scare me. What do I do?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical
How can I help my teen struggling with a pornography addiction?
Listen as Todd Stryd answers the question, "How can I help my teen struggling with a pornography addiction?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical couns
My husband lied to me. How do I know if I can trust him again?
Listen as Aaron Sironi answers the question, "My husband lied to me. How do I know if I can trust him again? " You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical cou
How do I navigate unwanted singleness?
Listen as Esther Liu answers the question, "How do I navigate unwanted singleness?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more re
What does the Bible say about how to respond to a nagging wife?
Listen as Aaron Sironi answers the question, "My wife nags me. It seems nothing I do is good enough for her. What do I do?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about
How do I discern true repentance from fake repentance?
Listen as Darby Strickland answers the question, "How do I discern true repentance from fake repentance?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseli
How do I get over or deal with certain anxiety triggers?
Listen as Todd Stryd answers the question, "How do I get over certain anxiety triggers?" You can watch the full video here. Have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit it here: ccef.org/ask-the-counselor-questions CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find mo
"He Came to Earth . . . He Came for Us" by Lauren Whitman
Listen as Lauren Whitman reads her blog, "He Came to Earth . . . He Came for Us," in which she considers the cosmic breakthrough when God entered our shattered world. You can read the blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine
"Desire for Approval" by Ed Welch
Listen as Ed Welch reflects on a time when he was controlled by his desire for others' approval. You can read the blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of Scripture for the troubles of life, visit ccef.org.
"12 Ways to Encourage an Open and Vulnerable Culture in Your Church" by Ed Welch
Listen as Ed Welch considers how we can contribute to a church culture where people are drawn into deeper community with one another in Christ. You can read the blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of Script
"When God's Promises Feel Untrue" by Esther Liu
Listen as Esther Liu considers the times when the promises of Scripture don't seem to apply to us, and what it looks like to walk by faith, not sight. You can read the blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of
"Today: A Devotional for Depression" by Ed Welch
Listen as Ed Welch reads a sample chapter from his book, Depression: Finding Christ in the Darkness. Ed asserts that Christ's mercy meets us where we are: today. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of Scripture for the
"Love is Inconvenient" by Mike Emlet
Listen as Mike Emlet reflects on what it means to love others as Jesus does, even when it's costly to us. You can read the blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of Scripture for the troubles of life, visit .
"Are You Getting in the Way of God's Work?" by Todd Stryd
Listen as Todd Stryd reflects on how God uses our weaknesses and limitations for his kingdom purposes, even when we're tempted to think we're just getting in his way. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of Scripture fo
"A Personal Experience of Shame . . . & Hope" by Todd Stryd
Listen as Todd Stryd shares an example of shame in his own life and assures us that what God says about us is ultimately true. You can read the blog here.
"To Those Living in Secret Sin" by Esther Liu
Listen as Esther Liu reads a compassionate letter to those living in secret sin, urging them to bring their sin into the light before others and before God, who is rich in mercy. You can read the blog here.
"In Defense of Something Close to Venting" by Todd Stryd
How do we honestly, openly share our thoughts in ways that are faithful and constructive? Listen as Todd Stryd considers Scripture's nuanced response, which all at once gives permission, admonishes caution, and provides direction. You can read the blog here.
"A Liturgy for Rest" by Mike Emlet
Listen as Mike Emlet reads his "Liturgy for Rest." You can read the liturgy here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of Scripture for the troubles of life, visit ccef.org. Music: "Created by Design" by Cody Martin.
"Jonah's Psalm of Thanksgiving" by Ed Welch
Listen as Ed Welch considers what we can learn from Jonah, who raises a song of praise to the Lord even in the belly of a fish. You can read the blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of Scripture for the troub
"Regrets in Parenting & Bothering Jesus" by Lauren Whitman
What do we do when we experience regrets in parenting? Listen as Lauren Whitman considers how Jesus rescues us from regrets by bringing new life to all our broken places.
"Why Do You Think You Can Do Better?" by Esther Liu
Listen as Esther Liu challenges a common response to our weaknesses and instead offers an alternate response. You can read the blog here.
"Stretching Joy: 10 Ways to Notice God's Everyday Mercies" by Mike Emlet
Often, moments of beauty, joy, and laughter in life are so fleeting. The challenges and griefs of life in this fallen world can quickly overshadow our perception of the good that God brings into our lives. Mike Emlet lists ten ways to stretch a momentary joy into a more lasting posture of gratitude. You can read the blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to re
"10 Ideas for Better Conversations" by Ed Welch
Most of us would like to learn how to have better conversations with those around us, but we don't know how to improve in these skills. Listen as Ed Welch considers 10 simple ways to improve our conversation skills in an effort to grow in our care for others. You can read his blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling
"The Messages We Receive" by Lauren Whitman
Messages about who we are—our identity—are powerful. Listen as Lauren Whitman reads her blog about the messages we receive from others and from the Lord and how they shape our identity. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasu
"The Day God Held Lot's Hand" by Ed Welch
In his blog, Ed Welch considers one well-known story in Scripture, drawing out a lesser known act of God's great mercy in the story. You can read the blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of Scripture for the
"Look for the Glimmers" by Esther Liu
Listen as Esther Liu talks about how noticing glimmers of God's kindness in our days is important when we walk through suffering. You can read the blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of Scripture for the tro
"Is It Sinful to Keep a Record of Wrongs?" by Darby Strickland
Is it sinful to keep a record of how others have hurt us? Darby Strickland explains why recording a list of wrongs can actually be a helpful tool in working with victims of abuse, as it helps them sort through ongoing patterns of abuse. You can read her blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn
"An Open Letter to a Discouraged Saint" by Mike Emlet
Listen as Mike Emlet reads his blog titled "An Open Letter to a Discouraged Saint," in which he seeks to remind us of God's unchangeable love. You can read his blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of Scriptur
"I Am Not Okay" by Todd Stryd
Listen as Todd Stryd reads his blog titled "I Am Not Okay," in which he contrasts God's voice with the voice of self-hatred. You can read his blog here. You can read her blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures o
"Words: A Hidden Weapon of Domestic Abuse" by Darby Strickland
Listen as Darby Strickland reads her blog titled "Words: A Hidden Weapon of Domestic Abuse." Darby discusses verbal abuse and the reasons why it may be harder to discern than other forms of abuse. You can read her blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to f
"Sexual Intimacy in Marriage: A Joint Trust" by Aaron Sironi
Listen as Aaron Sironi reads his blog titled "Sexual Intimacy in Marriage: A Joint Trust." Aaron considers Paul's words to the Corinthians about what it means to flourish in marital intimacy. You can read his blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find m
"Just-Around-the-Corner Spirituality" by Mike Emlet
Listen as Mike Emlet reads his blog titled "Just-Around-the-Corner Spirituality." Mike considers our tendency toward future thinking and discontentment. Instead, he advocates for today as the ideal context for Christian growth. You can read his blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more abo
"An Open Letter to a Distressed Sufferer" by Mike Emlet
Listen as Mike Emlet reads his blog titled "An Open Letter to a Distressed Sufferer," in which he seeks to encourage the downcast. You can read his blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of Scripture for the tr
"Psalm 90 & 'Doing the Best That I Can'" by Todd Stryd
Listen as Todd Stryd reads his blog titled "Psalm 90 and 'Doing the Best That I Can.'" Todd describes how this phrase is actually akin to praying that God would "establish the work of my hands." You can read his blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to fin
"Enduring in the Midst of Depression" by Ed Welch
Listen as Ed Welch reads his blog titled "Enduring in the Midst of Depression." Ed reflects on the results of a survey on depression, highlighting the testimony of many saints who've clung to Jesus. Listen for some practical encouragement in the struggle of depression. You can read his blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and c
"A Family Vacation, a Broken Transmission & a God Who is With Us" by Aaron Sironi
Listen as Aaron Sironi reads his blog titled "A Family Vacation, a Broken Transmission, and a God Who is With Us." Aaron tells a story about a time he and his family went on a camping trip only to have their car break down. He shares what they learned about God's care and presence. You can read his blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to co
"Community: A Struggle to Fit" by Darby Strickland
Listen as Darby Strickland reads her blog titled "Community: A Struggle to Fit." Darby considers God's good design for his people to live in community. You can read her blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of
"God Comes Close" by Ed Welch
Listen as Ed Welch reads his blog titled "God Comes Close," in which he reflects on God's presence as the greatest reassurance to anxious people. You can read his blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures of Scrip
"The Beauty of 'I'm Trying'" by Esther Liu
Listen as Esther Liu reads her blog titled "The Beauty of 'I'm Trying.'" Esther considers how even our weakest efforts—if they are sincere—are beautiful to God. You can read her blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the tre
"'He Knows All about It': C. S. Lewis & Psalm 103" by Todd Stryd
Listen as Todd Stryd reads his blog titled ""He Knows All about It": C. S. Lewis and Psalm 103." Todd shares an excerpt from Mere Christianity that considers God's compassion toward us, even in the face of temptation. You can read his blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblic
"What Does the Bible Say about Rest?" by Lauren Whitman
Listen as Lauren Whitman reads her blog titled "What Does the Bible Say about Rest?" in which she explores the theme of rest told throughout the story of Scripture. You can read her blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the
"A New Prayer for Anxiety" by Esther Liu
Listen as Esther Liu reads her blog titled "A New Prayer for Anxiety," in which she shares a time recently when she was moved to pray a different prayer in the face of anxious moments. You can read her blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more res
"When Your Mind Gets Stuck" by Ed Welch
Listen as Ed Welch reads his blog titled "When Your Mind Gets Stuck," in which he considers one strategy for dealing with unwanted, persistent thoughts. You can read his blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine the treasures o
"Winning Your Child's Heart with Winsome Words" by Darby Strickland
"We Are All Late Bloomers" by Lauren Whitman
Listen as Lauren Whitman reads her blog titled "We Are All Late Bloomers," in which she encourages the Christian who feels discouraged about their spiritual growth. You can read the blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine th
"Good Cop, Bad Cop in the Home" by Ed Welch
Listen as Ed Welch reads his blog titled "Good Cop, Bad Cop in the Home." Ed discusses what it looks like to be united as husband and wife in parenting, for the glory of God and the good of each other and our children. You can read the blog here. Music: "Created by Design" by Cody Martin
"Shepherding Children through Exposure to Pornography" by Darby Strickland
Music: "Created by Design" by Cody Martin
"Grace from the God Who Guards Your Life" by Lauren Whitman
Music: "Created by Design" by Cody Martin
"Why We Give In to Temptation" by Mike Emlet
Listen as Mike Emlet reads his blog titled "Why We Give In to Temptation," in which he considers our weariness in the face of temptation and offers motivation for turning to Jesus. You can read the blog here. Music: "Created by Design" by Cody Martin
"Courage through Comfort" by Darby Strickland
Listen as Darby Strickland reads her blog titled "Courage through Comfort," in which she considers the foundation for our action—not our ability, but God's trustworthiness. You can read the blog here. Music: "Created by Design" by Cody Martin
"Psalm 136 and the Blessing of Spiritual Speed Bumps" by Mike Emlet
Listen as Mike Emlet reads his blog titled "Psalm 136 and the Blessing of Spiritual Speed Bumps," in which he considers how repetition and slowing down help us remember God's steadfast love. You can read the blog here. Music: "Created by Design" by Cody Martin
"Glory Awaits Us: An Easter Reflection" by Lauren Whitman
Listen as Lauren Whitman reads her blog titled "Glory Awaits Us: An Easter Reflection." Lauren reflects on 2 Corinthians 5:17, which we can only understand through the Easter story. You can read this blog here. Music: "Created by Design" by Cody Martin
"They Call It Narcissism" by Ed Welch
Listen as Ed Welch reads his blog titled "They Call It Narcissism." He highlights some of the hardships of being in relationship with someone with narcissism, and some of the strategies we can take to challenge and love them well. You can read this blog here. Music: "Created by Design" by Cody Martin
"Forgiveness & Seeing the Father's Smile" by Lauren Whitman
Listen as Lauren Whitman reads her blog titled "Forgiveness and Seeing the Father's Smile," in which she discusses our tendency to doubt whether God really does forgive us, completely and without hesitation. You can read this blog here. Music: "Created by Design" by Cody Martin
"Become a Psalmist" by Ed Welch
Listen as Ed Welch reads his blog titled "Become a Psalmist," in which he invites us to speak honest words to the Lord, who is honored to hear what is on our hearts. You can read this blog here. CCEF (the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation) exists to restore Christ to counseling and counseling to the church. To learn more about biblical counseling and to find more resources that mine th
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