186: What Your Longings and Loneliness Might Be Telling You with Chuck DeGroat
In Episode 186, Daniel and Christina Im engage in a profound conversation with Chuck De Groat, a licensed therapist and author of “Healing What’s Within.” The discussion centers on themes of loneliness, healing, and the integration of spiritual and psychological insights. Chuck shares his journey in writing his book and emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with oneself. The episode explores practical tools for self-examination and highlights the significance of understanding and addressing deeper longings for connection and fulfillment.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:
- Exploration of themes of loneliness and disconnection.
- Discussion on the healing process and its significance.
- Integration of spiritual and psychological insights.
- The importance of self-awareness and introspection.
- The role of community in the healing journey.
- Examination of internal conflicts and desires.
- Reflection on the biblical concept of “coming home to oneself.”
- Practical tools for self-examination based on biblical questions.
- Encouragement to engage in contemplative practices and connect with God.
Resources Mentioned In This Episode:
- Read Chuck’s newest book, Healing What’s Within
- Read Chuck’s previous best selling book, When Narcissism Comes To Church
Questions For Personal Reflection:
- How do you experience loneliness in your personal or married life, and how do you usually cope with it?
- Are there any areas in your life or relationship where you see a need for deeper emotional or spiritual healing?
- The phrase “coming home to yourself” can feel unfamiliar or even abstract. What does it mean to you to be “at home” with yourself, and how can we help each other in this process?
Discussion Prompts For You As A Couple:
- How do you think understanding ourselves better might help improve our relationship with God and with each other?
- Have there been wounds or unresolved emotions from your past that you feel affect our relationship? How can we create a space to discuss and heal these together?
- How do you feel I can better support you in your emotional or spiritual journey?
- What can we do together as a couple to ensure we are both growing and healing in a healthy way?
Meet 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 darknights 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.
