In this episode, I welcome back my dear friend and colleague, Dr. Jennifer Londgren. Season 2 continues as Jenna shares about the experiences that drew her to the field and how her journey to professional counseling was shaped by her love for people and understanding behavior. We discuss the significance of scaling impact through writing and public speaking, as well as the integration of faith and mental health in counseling practices. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of community support and the ongoing journey of personal and professional growth. Jenna has been a supporter and contributor to Bethany's clinical mental health program from its very inception. I am truly grateful for our friendship and collaboration. Stick around for an extended outro where I share a bit more about our recent collaboration and the CMHC program's involvement at the Christian Association for Psychological Studies International Conference that took place in Denver, CO.

In this episode of the Well Mind podcast, Dr. Ben Kohls engages in a broad and thoughtful conversation with Anita Smith, exploring her journey into the counseling field, the integration of faith in therapy, and the value and joy of play therapy. They also discuss Anita's global counseling experiences, the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in the field, and the need for personal human connection in therapeutic settings. The episode concludes with aspirations for future developments in Bethany's counselor education program.

Summary

In this episode of the Well Mind Podcast, I speak with Dr. Helena Stevens, core faculty member at Bethany Lutheran College in the CMHC Program. We discuss Dr. Stevens' unique journey to becoming a counselor, the importance of mentorship, and the integration of faith into professional identity. The conversation also explores the capstone experience for students, emphasizing the significance of faith in counseling practices and the core conditions that define effective counseling. Dr. Stevens shares her personal challenges and triumphs, highlighting the transformative power of authenticity in the counseling profession.