Biblical Counseling and Autism in Children with Johanna Pressley

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, our host, Shannon Kay McCoy, speaks with biblical counselor, mother, and author Johanna Presley to explore how God’s Word speaks hope and clarity into autism in children.Drawing from both personal experience and biblical counseling practice, Johanna helps listeners understand autism through a gospel-centered lens—one that points us to a framework rooted in biblical identity, discernment, and the sufficiency of Scripture. She also equips listeners with practical ways to share the gospel with children with autistic traits.This conversation is especially encouraging for parents, counselors, and church members who desire to walk more faithfully alongside families affected by autism.This conversation unpacks:Creative and accessible ways to communicate the gospel to children with autistic traitsHow biblical counseling differs from secular counseling models when addressing autismUnique challenges families with members with autistic traits faceEncouragement and practical help for parents, biblical counselors, and church membersBiblical identity rooted in Christ, not a diagnosisResources to equip you:Biblical Counseling and Autism in Children by Johanna PressleyCritical Issues in Biblical Counseling Series— Ernie Baker, Consulting EditorBiblical Counseling and Common Grace by Heath LambertBiblical Counseling and Mental Disorder Diagnosis by Jenn ChenBiblical Counseling and They Psychologies by Ernie Baker