Tag: Richard Black

Hope Beyond a Diagnosis

with Richard Black

I am pleased to announce the arrival of a new Reviving Hope podcast episode! This time I talk with Richard Black about what happens in the space after someone receives a mental health diagnosis. Richard discusses the hope that neuroplasticity offers, and how we can learn to regulate our emotions. I share from my personal experience of being diagnosed with bipolar disorder and the hope that I found following this. Richard is a counsellor and sought after speaker in Aotearoa New Zealand. Richard and I did a recording a few years ago on this topic and got great feedback about it. This time we revisit it with new content for a fresh message.

Richard provides counselling, leadership coaching, training, supervision and church consultation through his organisation Thriving Churches. To find out more you can visit thrivingchurcheshq.

Questions from the podcast episode, for those who have a mental health diagnosis:

  1. What are any benefits you have had from being given a diagnosis?
  2. a) Has being given a diagnosis negatively affected how you see yourself and what you are capable of? b) If so, how could you challenge these beliefs?
  3. What dreams or goals might be realised if you let go of self-limiting beliefs?
  4. What did you learn about neuroplasticity and the relationship of the mind to the brain (the brain’s ability to be shaped by what we think on)?
  5. From what you’ve heard, is there an exercise or approach for managing anxiety you could find helpful to try, e.g., breathing exercises, implementing the four A’s?

If you think it would be helpful, consider discussing your findings with a trusted friend. As always, please do seek out professional help if you need it.

Do subscribe, and share this episode with someone who may be encouraged by this message.

Warm regards,

Bronnie Tressler

Being Healthy in a Church – Pt 2

With Richard Black

The second episode of ‘Being Healthy in a Church’ is out! In this last episode counsellor Richard Black shares insights into the gift that forgiveness is to our mental wellbeing. He teaches what forgiveness is and what it isn’t. He also makes a compelling case for the benefits of forgiveness for the person who forgives.

We may leave a church for a variety of reasons, some very practical while others more complex. Here Richard discusses the more complex type and a process for communicating with church leaders in healthy ways. He also speaks to the need to be considerate of pastors’ mental wellbeing.

“Forgiveness is actually about letting us off the hook of carrying such a soul destroying unforgiveness”…

I am grateful for Richard’s contribution to these episodes. Part one is available on your podcast platform. The introductory conversation to both can be listened to on my last post called, ‘Being Healthy in a Church – Part One’.

 Richard is a sought after counsellor and speaker. For more information about Richard and his counselling business you can visit Mind Health www.mindhealth.org 

Korimako Church -Palmerston North

Last month I had the privilege of travelling to Palmerston North to Korimako Vineyard Church. I shared my story at a women’s gathering. I had a wonderful time with Amy Tait (above left), the Tait whānau and the lovely women there.

Go well this Autumn season,

Bronnie

Being Healthy in a Church – Pt 1

Introduction & Episode 1 with Richard Black

Hello friend,

This post Richard Black and I are chatting about church – what makes it so great and how to find one.

Being Healthy In a Church: Introductory Conversation

In this introduction we talk about what church is, why we enjoy being in it, and how it can help in times of crisis. Richard discusses how to search for a church and about how to know if a church is healthy. Ignore the bit where I say this is episode 1. Episode 1 is on the podcast below!

Richard is the founder and director of Mind Health. He is sought after as a counsellor, coach and communicator, and has been involved in people work for over 25 years. Richard has vast experience in church ministry and supporting pastors. Through his counselling, training, and public speaking he helps people enhance their thinking, be proactive in relationships, and thrive in life. Mind Health have counsellors in Christchurch and in other locations around Aotearoa, New Zealand. They offer in person and online services.

You can find out more about Mind Health and Richard here: mindhealth.org

If you haven’t already, I encourage you to sign up to this blog for extras that I put out with episodes.

Podcast episode: Being Healthy In a Church – Part 1

Richard and I discuss what it can be like looking for a Christian church. Richard also covers how to serve and give in church in a centred way – balancing our needs in different seasons of our lives. We also discuss healthy ways to perceive church leaders. Reviving Hope episodes are available on Spotify (below), Apple Podcasts, Podbean and all major podcast platforms.

Event!

I’m speaking at the following Women’s Event in Palmerston North. Come join us for the afternoon or pass this invite on to a woman in the area who could benefit from some encouragement.

Hui Wahine

SATURDAY 9TH OF MARCH 2-5 pm $5pp

Korimako Vineyard Church 117 College Street, Palmerston North. 😁

Come join us for a special afternoon of encouragement. Bring your friends ❤️ We are going to be having a conversation about looking after our mental health and well-being, and how God can minister to us through lots of different ways, from prayer, community, counselling and medical support. We’ll have worship and yummy afternoon tea and finish the evening off by heading to town for tea for those who want the girls day to continue on!

Do get in touch if you have any feedback about episodes. If you’re loving it consider leaving a review with your podcast provider. I am grateful for your support.

Be blessed as you enter a new month!

Ngā mihi nui,

Bronnie Tressler

email: bronnie@revivinghope.life