Most likely, one of the first questions you’ll ask when you hear about Dwell Ministry is simple:

WHY SHOULD I COLLABORATE WITH DWELL?

We want to address the fact that the church is not immune to mental illness. Whether we recognize it or not, studies show that mental health struggles affect almost 20% of adults. Other studies show closer to 40%! These numbers also reflect a 25% increase in anxiety and depression, in particular, since the onset of COVID-19. Our broken world became more broken, and we are still recovering. Lifeway Research found that only 27% of churches have a plan to assist families affected by mental illness, and another study by a UK think tank found that only 35% of people with mental illness felt supported by their churches. Something is off about these numbers. And the message we’re sending, even unintentionally, is only leading to feelings of isolation and condemnation. We believe that, together, we can do better. 

Therapy can be God-honoring and Biblically grounded while following research driven practices. We are physical, emotional, and spiritual beings - God created us this way! When we experience pain or struggle, the treatment must be no less complex than this design! Just as you would go to see an orthopedic surgeon for a broken arm, or to a pastor for a sin struggle or spiritual doubt, therapists can support an individual’s journey toward sanctification by helping them process, challenge, and make sense of thoughts, feelings, and memories so that they have a clearer view of how God is using their suffering for their good and His glory. It is time we stopped putting mental illness in a different category of suffering and started addressing it with all of the tools God has given us to foster healing and growth for the whole person.

We are not here to undermine or replace the authority of local church leadership and discipleship - there is no need for more division! We believe that pastoral counseling and discipleship play an irreplaceable role in the church. We also believe that it is paramount to appreciate the complexities of mental health and the expertise professionals can bring to the table. We strive to come alongside as a supplemental and trusted resource to bridge the gap between mental health needs and spiritual discipleship. We are believers first, and therapists second - we are under the authority of Scripture and a very good God. We believe that healing - no matter how it happens - should bolster our faith because God is the ultimate healer. And we believe that our faith is not devoid of action. We act, teach, treat, work, and counsel. HE HEALS.

Lastly, what does this mean for you?

In partnership with you, we want to equip your ministry leaders to have a solid understanding of the impact of mental health on relationships, overall health, and discipleship. We offer training progams specifically designed for ministry leaders to have the tools, knowledge, and vocabulary to walk alongside those in your church body.  We also offer consultation for the pastoral counseling that may already be happening in your church.  Additionally, we have developed a referral network to connect you with therapists in the area who are professed believers and psychological professionals.  We can’t wait to hear from you and we look forward to partnering with you and your church - to help you do what you’re already doing better.