Ask Christian Counseling Associates

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we talk with Dr. Jim Matta of Geneva College and CCA counselor Mark Britton. Join us as we explore challenges that teens face in the modern culture, and the growing conversation around neurodiversity from a Christian counseling perspective.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, join us for a conversation with special guest Tom Weil, Clinical Supervisor and Licensed Counselor at CCA. Together, we explore how digital culture is reshaping how people seek help, and why real, embodied relationships remain essential for emotional healing and spiritual growth. Hear insights into the rise of online counseling, the dangers of disconnection, and how Christian counseling must hold fast to incarnational truth in a disembodied age.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, join us for a conversation with CCA counselors Dawn Ritchie and Andrew Schnur as we explore how faith and family form the foundation of emotional healing and spiritual growth. Hear Dawn's insights as a mother and experienced counselor, and Andrew's perspective as a new father and leader of TAG groups at CCA. Together, they share powerful stories of transformation, the importance of community, and how faith brings lasting hope.

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we sit down with special guest Gary Petrie as he shares his real-life journey of parenting three children diagnosed with ADHD. Hear a testimonial of honest struggles, surprising breakthroughs, and the hope that grows through challenge. Join us as we enter a space of encouragement, insight, and faith connection.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, join us for a conversation with CCA counselors Andrew Schnur and David Whipple as we explore the vital role of faith in drug and alcohol counseling (DACCA), the mission of the Foundation for Christian Counseling (FFCC), and the impact of community through TAG groups and small groups in the church. Plus, get to know Andrew and David as they share their journey at CCA and the importance of spiritual formation in the healing process.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we confront a hidden struggle affecting over half of practicing Christians—pornography. Many suffer in silence, unaware of the deep psychological and spiritual impact. Our guest, Robert Vander Meer, a Pastoral Sex Addiction Professional with Pure Desire, shares how true freedom comes through biblical truth, clinical insight, and authentic community. Join us as we uncover the path to healing and renewal in Christ.

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we sit down with special guest, CCA Counselor Judy McLaren, who brings a unique perspective as a counselor and an individual living with ADHD. Together, we explore the complexities of navigating life with ADHD, from personal challenges to professional triumphs. Judy shares her powerful story of resilience and how her faith has shaped her journey, offering hope and practical insights for those walking a similar path. Don't miss this candid and inspiring discussion about turning ADHD struggles into strengths.

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we meet with special guest, CCA Counselor Tyler Erickson, as we explore the deep and lasting impact of childhood sexual abuse and the unique challenges faced by survivors. Join the discussion, as we offer insights into the Menendez Brothers Trial and how sexual abuse affects the behavior of individuals and families. 

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we meet with special guest, Reverend Robert Zilhaver, Pastor of St. Marys Methodist Church and Consultant to CCA, as we explore subtle types of church corruption that are prevalent in today's culture, and its pervasive impact on the family.

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates we meet  with special guest CCA counselor Kent Rogers as we discuss the pilgrimage of El Camino de Santiago, and faith, sacrifice, and transformation.

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we meet with CCA Counselor, musician, and author Deborah Keefe as we reflect on the heroism of 9/11 survivors, focusing on how we find the strength and resilience to rebuild when we are in the most challenging valleys of life.

In this Ask Christian Counseling Associates episode, we meet with Janice McKinney. In 1985, her 8-year-old daughter went missing after stepping off of her school bus on a Friday afternoon. Join us as Janice shares her story of tragedy and loss transformed in forgiveness to a life of redemption and hope.

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we meet with Professor and Licensed Professional Counselor, Dr. Kristen Kansiewicz, to discuss the state of clergy mental health, as we ask the question, how is my pastor doing?

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we meet with CCA Counselor and Professional Figure Skater, Mathew Essigmann, to discuss a personal journey of trauma, abandonment, and finding healing and identity in Christ and Family Life.

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we meet with author and father of 4 children, Peter Daniel James, to discuss his most recent publication, Not Another Christian Parenting Book.  Join us as we focus on biblical parenting strategies for challenging family situations.

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we meet with special guest Former Congressman and Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Tim Murphy, to discuss his most recent book, The Christ Cure.  Join us as we focus on biblical healing from Trauma, Tragedy and PTSD.

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates, join us with our panel guests, including Attorney Allan Parker, Author of Reversing Roe vs. Wade, as we explore the expanding mission of the Foundation for Christian Counseling and its pro-life mission. Learn more about how families are affected by post-abortive trauma and moral injury and what can be done to save lives.

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates, join us with special guest Dr. Joe Maola as we explore the essence of what makes counseling effective, and how clients can experience great results when they seek professional help.

In this Ask Christian Counseling Associates episode, we welcome Tammy Summers, the author of "Homecoming: A Story of Hope Out of Heartbreak," as our special guest. Witness a healing journey as Tammy recounts her testimony, revealing how God's presence amidst immense tragedy and loss brought restoration and hope to her family and community.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we focus on "The Mental Health Crisis on College Campuses.” Join us with special guest Lauren Watka Atwood, Campus Minister with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, as we delve into the challenges facing students in higher education. Stay tuned for an expert analysis of young adult culture and key insights into an emerging problem that deserves our attention and investment.

Welcome to the CCA New Year's Podcast for 2024, a special episode where we delve into faith, reflection, and insight. Joining us is Tom Weil, Clinical Supervisor of CCA, as we explore the top 10 most impactful stories of 2023 through a Christian lens. Tune in for a journey of faith, learning, and community.

On this episode of “Ask Christian Counseling Associates, join special guests Isabelle Toomey and Ben Saenz of CCA, as we explore the lost art of wonder and creativity in our culture, its impact on our mental health, and how embracing God's creative spirit within us can restore it.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we delve into the epidemic of sexual abuse.  Join us with special guest Pastor Jimmy Hinton as he shares his personal journey of confronting a sexual offender and learning how to become a protector of the innocent.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we delve deep into the intricacies of navigating post-abortive trauma, managing anxiety, and embracing hope. Be here for a special announcement about our new partnership with Concepts of Truth, to provide a national call center dedicated to helping individuals find healing after abortion. Join us with special guest, Counselor Ben Saenz, of CCA for Unveiling Shadows, where we shed light on the path to recovery.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, join Justin Kunkle, the Director of Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation at CCA, as he explores the profound intersection of faith, sobriety, and human flourishing. Delve into the transformative journey of addiction recovery, where Justin shares invaluable insights and experiences that shed light on the path to healing and thriving.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we explore the question, It's the End of the World as we know it; do we feel fine? Join special guests Pastor Don Walczak and Dr. Kris M. DeJeet from Cornerstone Ministries as we explore the intersection of addiction, existentialism, and the human journey in the modern world.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we'll navigate through personal stories of triumph, the complexities of trauma and abuse, and the interplay between our inherent nature and the nurturing we receive. From heart-wrenching anecdotes to enlightening conversations, join the podcast with special guest Allison Smith, as we explore big life challenges and how to emerge from them stronger, wiser, and more resilient.

Who is Dr. Joe Maola, and why does he have the Summer Time Blues? Answer: Dr. Joe is a counselor at CCA who thought he could "chill" online but missed the podcast scheduled onsite. That's what happens when we have a case of mixing up virtual rays with real-life delays. But seriously, are you having symptoms of restlessness, dissatisfaction, or frustration during the summer months? You might be struggling with the summertime blues! Join us with special guests Kiley Henehan and Josh Ricketts of CCA, as we share the cure for how to beat these blues this summer.

Private Christian schools are in, in a big way. What is the difference between Christian and Public Schools? Why is Christian education important to consider as a viable option? I am your Host, Dr. Rich Hoffman. On this Ask Christian Counseling Associates episode, Join me with our Special Guest, Dr. Merle Skinner, the Executive Director of Christian Family and Children's Center in Champion, Pennsylvania.

Marijuana use is on the rise in our culture, most states are on the brink of legalization. What does this say about our society? What is a Christian mental health response to this issue? I am your host, Dr. Rich Hoffman, and on this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, join me to discuss these questions and more topics with our Clinical Supervisor, Tom Weil, and CCA counselor Chuck Sigler.

Losing a loved one is tragic and affects life in deep and permanent ways. How can we understand and make meaning of these experiences? I am your Host Dr. Rich Hoffman and on this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, Join me to hear a story of grief and loss from a young man's perspective with guest Alexander Petrie from Charter Oak Church in Greensburg, PA.

What does it mean to be in a healthy relationship? Why are healthy relationships in our lives so important? Today this idea is foreign to our culture and even the mainstream mental health profession. I am your host, Dr. Rich Hoffman, and on this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, Join me to discuss these questions and more topics with our guest pastor Carmen Shullo from Butler, Pennsylvania.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we are podcasting from Caldwell, New Jersey, during our visit to the United Nations, with special guests Millie Lace, Founder and Director, and Josephine Tyne,  representative to the UN from Concepts of Truth International. Join us as we discuss what God has ignited in the Life-affirming movement of Concepts of Truth and how Christians everywhere can have an impact for the kingdom. 

We know what issues face us in America, but what about other places? Other Cultures? On this Ask Christian Counseling Associates episode, join us live from the United Nations in New York City, where we gather with an international panel to discuss mental health issues from a Christian Perspective. Join us and learn more about interesting, diverse cultural perspectives on mental health and faith.

On this Ask Christian Counseling Associates episode, we invite Rev. Micah Ramsey, Pastor of Eastvale Reformed Presbyterian Church in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, to join us for a discussion on Biblical manhood. With the rise of woke ideology, terms like toxic or hypermasculinity can be used to describe and stigmatize male behavior.  How should we define healthy masculinity?  Does God have a design and a plan for our gender? In our modern world, is there a place for defined gender roles? Join us as we explore concepts of manhood and how contemporary cultural influences its development.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we talk with David Collins, LPC, Clinical Supervisor at CCA.  Fresh back from our annual onsite visit to Liberia, David and I discuss our recent experiences and share our hearts about this vital mission. Join us as we do a rewind on the Liberia experience and how God is moving powerfully in West Africa. Sometimes, people ask us, “why does CCA go to Liberia?” Our answer is, “that is where Jesus is!” Join us on this podcast and learn more about the new and exciting things happening with the Liberia mission.

A recent Gallup Poll survey indicates that 23% of the U.S. population sought counseling in 2022.  This is nearly double the amount of those seeking help from the same measure made in 2004.  What's going on with mental health in America?  On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, join us to discuss this question and more with special guest Tom Weil, Clinical Supervisor of our Butler and Mercer regions of CCA.

Some believe that the most depressing day of the year happens in mid-January. This is when we are coming off the high of the Christmas celebrations, bills from holiday spending start to hit our inbox, the weather is the bleakest, and guilt from failed New Year's Resolutions culminates in a perfect storm of discouragement. On this Ask Christian Counseling Associates episode, we meet with Dr. Karen Mason, Professor of Counseling and Psychology from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.  Dr. Mason is the author of “Preventing Suicide: A Handbook for Pastors, Chaplains, and Pastoral Counselors,” and “Preaching Hope in Darkness: Help for Pastors in Addressing Suicide from the Pulpit.” Join us as we seek expert advice on how to prevent the destructive trend of suicide.

In this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we meet with the Rev. Dr. Jerry Kulah from Liberia, West Africa.  Liberia began as a county in the early 19th century as the United States began to send freed slaves seeking a new start to resettle in Africa. Since this time, Liberia has shared a special connection with America. Rev. Kulah is a leader with the African Initiative, an influential group of African faith leaders within the United Methodist Church. Join us as we discuss our connection to Africa in mission, values, and Christian faith. Christian Counseling Associates loves Liberia, and we hope that you will, too, as you get to know Dr. Kulah and the mission that we share together.

Join Dr. Rich Hoffman on this episode of Ask Christian Counseling as we invite special Guest Corey Policastro to speak about how addictions evolve in our local community.  Corey shares his experience as a treatment coordinator with many years of service in drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers. He also shares his personal testimony about addiction and redemption.  Join us to learn more about healing journeys from addiction and how faith in Jesus Christ is at the center of it all.

What does it take to succeed in marriage and parenting? What does it take to keep your family on a developmental path of emotional and spiritual flourishing?  Join us for this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates and special guest Rev. Dr. David Brewer, a retired Presbyterian pastor, and expert in raising and nurturing families. In this episode, we explore seven biblical principles of raising families by God's design. Join us and share David's story of his family's challenges and triumphs and how this led to discovering biblical growth principles that can be a blessing to any family.

Christian counselors often see firsthand the power that faith plays in recovery from addiction.  Despite this, the world seeks to downplay the significance of faith in the healing process. Join us for this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates and special guest Tim Thoma, chaplain, business owner, Christian, and recovering addict. Tim shares a powerful testimony of being delivered from a life of addiction through faith in Jesus Christ. What's Faith Got to Do With It? Everything from beginning to end! Join us and share Tim's story of powerful redemption and transformation.

On this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, join Dr. Rich Hoffman and special guest Rhys Thomas, from Electromedical Products International, as they discuss the issues surrounding treatment using psychiatric medication. Often, medications are prescribed as a first-line treatment for anxiety, depression, and trauma. Recent research brings into question the true effectiveness of these medications. Side effects and addiction from long-term use can be prevalent.  Alternative treatments, like Alpha-Stim, that are researched and effective are available.  Join us as we explore the question, “to medicate or not to medicate?

Ask Christian Counseling Associates welcomes special guest Michael Palladini, addictions expert and author of “Spellbound and Sensationless: A Drug War Vision.”  Join us as we explore how substances can powerfully cast a “spell” of addiction.  Listeners will gain an understanding of how to reach those who struggle and connect them with recovery resources. As we listen to this episode, we hope to reflect on friends and family who have become spellbound by addiction and begin an intervention plan.

Ask Christian Counseling Associates talks with special guest Robby Angle, author of "The Cure for Groups." Robby is the President and CEO of Trueface, an organization that seeks effective ways for teaching complex biblical principles of truth and grace, and moves people from pleasing God to trusting God with their new identity. In this episode, we talk about concepts and techniques that will help you guide small groups in a manner that will make these meetings full of impact and purpose.

In the modern world, it is easy to misperceive the true identity of Jesus. It is recorded in John 14:7, that Jesus said, “If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; from now on you know Him, and have seen Him.” This is one of the statements found in the Bible where Jesus directly claims to His followers that He is God. Join this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates and special guest Rev. Dr. Allyn Ricketts, author of the new book, “He claimed to be God” as we explore the true identity of Jesus and how these powerful revelations relate to our emotional healing and growth.

Recent inflation has triggered rising prices and financial stress across the country.  How can financial uncertainty affect your mental health?  How does financial matters expose unique habits and personality characteristics?  What is the best way to navigate through these changing times? Join Dr. Rich Hoffman, and special guest Nick Wyzkiewicz, Financial Advisor from Kadis Margolis Corporation as they explore how financial challenges affect us emotionally and spiritually.  Listeners will gain essential insights that can help move past emotional triggers, and bring about financial stability and security during these challenging times.

During the New Year's celebrations many hope for a new start, and to make a lasting change in their lives. This episode of Ask Christian Counseling focuses on 5 key Biblical designs for lasting change.  Seeking to make a change in your physical health, lose weight, or make a career change?  Discover God's design for lasting change, and make this a transformational New Year!

Part of God's design for our life involves Transparency, Accountability, and Growth (TAG). For this reason, getting back on track involves reconnecting with these significant lifestyle factors.  TAG Groups at CCA are designed to help get you unstuck, and back on track for good! In this episode of Ask Christian Counseling Associates, join Dr. Rich Hoffman and special guest, Allen Joseph, M.A. to learn all about how TAG groups work, and why you should join one today at a CCA location near you!

Managing Anger can be the difference between success and failure in our most important relationships.  In this podcast, join Dr. Rich Hoffman, and special guest Sheena Abraham, as they take a comprehensive look at how anger is triggered, and how it can be effectively managed. Listen to this podcast and gain key insights into managing anger even in the most challenging situations.

Just as we climb out of the uncertain times of a pandemic, it is important to stay aware of a major “rite of passage'' that is just up ahead for our kids. Entering the world of work or college life, especially after COVID-19, can be overwhelming without wise preparation. This podcast explores how to stay on top of the transition that our adolescents are facing as they journey into young adulthood. In this episode, learn the 5 key life areas that every parent should assess and support to ensure success for their young adult heading off to the next stage of life.