Find healing and freedom from trauma and abuse with therapy. Join me as I interview therapist and author Dr. Chuck DeGroat about his forthcoming book, "Healing What's Within." In this candid discussion, Chuck shares vulnerable stories from his own journey of working through childhood wounds and attachment issues to become a non-anxious presence. You'll gain insight into: - Why curiosity and introspection are key to healing trauma - How to cultivate a regulated nervous system and attuned relationships - Why narcissists struggle to process shame and often displace it onto others - How Chuck's therapeutic approach has evolved to lead with more compassion If you're feeling the effects of narcissistic leaders, bullying, or other forms of spiritual abuse, this conversation will empower you to navigate your healing journey. Chuck offers wisdom and practical tools to help you rediscover the goodness within. Come away encouraged that lasting freedom is possible when we courageously explore our inner world. This is an open invitation for each of us to come home to our truest self, so that we can make space for others to do the same.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Discover the key to healing from trauma and abuse with therapy and gain insights into reclaiming your well-being.
Uncover the impact of narcissism in church leadership and learn how to navigate its effects on mental health and professional life.
Explore the benefits of professional mental health support and understand how it can contribute to personal growth and resilience.
Gain insight into understanding attachment issues and trauma recovery to foster healing and emotional well-being.
Learn about the role of self-regulation in effective leadership and how it can positively impact workplace dynamics and personal growth.
My special guest is Dr. Chuck DeGroat
Chuck DeGroat is a professor of pastoral care and Christian spirituality at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan, where he also serves as the founding executive director of the clinical mental health counseling program. He is a licensed therapist, spiritual director, author, retreat leader speaker, and faculty member with the Soul Care Institute. As a therapist, he specializes in navigating issues of abuse and trauma, pastoral (and leadership) health, and doubt and dark nights on the faith journey. He trains clergy in handling issues of abuse and trauma, conducts pastor and planter assessments, and facilitates church consultations and investigations of abuse. Before transitioning to training and forming pastors, Chuck served as a pastor in Orlando and San Francisco. He and his wife, Sara, have been married for 30 years and have two adult daughters.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast
00:01:40 - Chuck DeGroat's Background
00:03:22 - Evolution of Chuck DeGroat's Approach
00:11:03 - Faux Vulnerability in Church Leadership
00:13:09 - Misuse of Self-Work for Immunity
00:13:40 - Dysfunctional Dynamics in Churches
00:14:58 - Toxic Leadership and Manipulation
00:19:06 - Nervous System Dysregulation
00:22:10 - Healing Attachment Wounds
00:25:52 - Transformation and Non-Anxious Presence
00:26:17 - Recognizing Patterns of Toxic Behavior
00:27:24 - Accountability and Systemic Change
00:29:15 - Rebuilding for the Future
00:30:49 - Understanding Shame Dynamics
00:35:15 - Rediscovering the Goodness of the Heart
00:39:20 - Men Doing Deeper Work
00:40:02 - Bullying and Women
00:41:15 - Complimenting Each Other's Work
00:41:39 - Encouraging Curiosity and Healing
00:42:42 - Embracing Curiosity and Healing
00:53:11 - Finding Healing and Freedom
00:53:32 - Hope in "Healing What's Within"
00:53:46 - Join the Difference Maker Community
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:00:00 - Conclusion
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Pre-order Healing What's Within by Dr. Chuck DeGroot on his website chuckdegroot.net or through major book retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Book Depository.
Join the Patreon community at patreon.com/aworldofdifference to access exclusive content, including additional insights from Dr. Chuck DeGroot.
Explore additional resources recommended by Dr. Chuck DeGroot at the end of each chapter, such as Dan Allender's To Be Told: Know Your Story, Shape Your Life and Frederick Buechner's Telling Secrets.
Engage in introspective and mindful practices to support your healing journey, such as deep breathing, visualization, and EMDR spotting.
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