Exploring Safe Spaces for Trauma Recovery - Karen deArmond Gardner

About the Guest(s): Karen DeArmond Gardner: Karen is a distinguished DV (domestic violence) trauma advocate renowned for her extensive work with survivors of domestic abuse. As the author of "Another One Free," Karen draws on her rich experience to lead support groups, offer guidance, and walk alongside women on their healing journeys. From her role at Mountain City to her impactful book, Karen's dedication to helping individuals untangle personal trauma and rediscover their self-worth is evident in her practice and teaching. Episode Summary: Join host Megan Owen, a pastoral trauma counselor, on this enlightening episode of Pretty Psych, where the profound impacts of evangelical Christianity and cultural dynamics on the psyche are deconstructed. Megan welcomes Karen D'Armond Gardner, a renowned domestic violence trauma advocate, to discuss the transformative work being done through support groups at Mountain City Christian Counseling. Over the course of the episode, Megan and Karen delve into the specifics of different counseling group offerings, beginning in January 2025. These include crisis groups, spiritual processing groups, and specialized domestic violence sessions. They discuss the critical role these groups play in offering affordable and meaningful support for women healing from trauma, integrating the psychological and spiritual dimensions of recovery. Through the use of a unique, non-judgmental, and connection-focused format, the groups aim to create a safe and healing environment that fosters deep emotional intimacy and personal growth. Key Takeaways: Karen DeArmond Gardner emphasizes the importance of safety and vulnerability in trauma recovery groups, highlighting that true breakthroughs often occur when individuals feel secure in expressing their emotions. Mountain City offers a variety of group sessions, including crisis and spiritual processing groups, designed to address different facets of trauma and faith reconstruction. The episode stresses refraining from advising during group discussions, focusing instead on deep listening and reflection to uphold the sacredness of shared stories. Megan Owen highlights the necessity of establishing safe, judgment-free environments to help clients overcome past betrayals and relational wounds. Through their work, Megan and Karen show how re-engaging with faith and uncovering the deeper truths of spirituality can facilitate healing from the damage caused by abuse and dogmatic beliefs. Notable Quotes: "It's detangling, well, who you believe, what you believe about yourself." — Karen DeArmond Gardner "We are literally just holding space for them, like Job's friends did when they just sat with him." — Karen DeArmond Gardner "We don't have to defend God, we don't have to defend Jesus, we don't have to defend the church, we don't have to defend anybody." — Karen DeArmond Gardner "Because the women who come into the groups have everything they need inside of them." — Megan Owen "We love our clients. We have to have… safety in order for healing to happen." — Megan Owen Resources: Mountain City Christian Counseling: mountaincitychristiancounseling.com Karen DeArmond Gardner's Book: "Another One Free" Delve into this episode for insights into trauma recovery through community, and stay tuned for more empowering discussions on Pretty Psych.