The Created Mind

Somatic therapy has grown rapidly in popularity for the treatment of trauma and other mental health conditions. However many Christians are suspicious of this form of therapy. Is it Eastern spiritualism wrapped up in therapeutic language? On the other hand, many Christians see the powerful effects this therapy are tempted to accept its underlying explanations without careful examination. In this first of two episodes, I lay a theological foundation for evaluating the claims of somatic therapy, discuss the well established science behind the body/brain connection, and outline the history of where this therapy really came from. Part two will explore modern forms of somatic therapy and share practical steps to evaluating truth claims in this field.____Join the conversation on Substack: https://substack.com/@ashleyhagemanMy private practice (Michigan only): https://www.solaceprofessionalcounseling.com/homeMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

A body-only, mind-only or spirit-only approach to mental health treatment leads each to an essential failure to effectively promote healing. In this episode, I discuss heritability studies, the limits of psychopharmacology, the insufficiency of purely cognitive approaches, and the unbiblical shame of over-spiritualization. I argue that we need to understand mental illness as a condition with multi-layered explanations requiring a multi-layered treatment for ourselves, our clients and those we love.All of this is modeled in God’s response to Elijah’s suicidal episode in the wilderness: God gives rest and food, corrects his thinking and reveals the spiritual reality of his presence.If you are facing a mental illness yourself, supporting a loved one or treating a client, this conceptual model offers a comprehensive approach to the person. A vision of wholeness rather than convenient reductionism.Schizophrenia Heritability Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14662550/Depression Medication Efficacy Study: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/5548444_Kirsch_I_Deacon_BJ_Huedo-Medina_TB_Scoboria_A_Moore_TJ_Johnson_BT_Initial_severity_and_antidepressant_benefits_a_meta-analysis_of_data_submitted_to_the_Food_and_Drug_Administration_PLoS_Med_5_260-268Depression Remission Study: https://www.thecarlatreport.com/articles/4733-stard-reanalysis-causes-new-debate-over-antidepressant-efficacy#:~:text=Study%20type%3A%20Reanalysis%20of%20an,(STAR*D)%20studyChemical imbalance theory busted: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41380-022-01661-0Antipsychotic Meds Shrinking Brain Study: https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/antipsychotics-and-shrinking-brainEfficacy of Antipsychotics: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41784458/#:~:text=SG%20LAI%20users%20showed%20reductions,015)%20daysVocational outcomes of antipsychotic users: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/396179149_Protocol_for_-_Association_of_antipsychotic_medication_usage_and_employment_outcomes_in_patients_with_schizophrenia_spectrum_disorders_A_Danish_register-based_studyVitamin D Deficiency Rates: https://faseb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1096/fasebj.26.1_supplement.1008.1Conversion disorder Case Study: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9564367/Misattribution of Arousal Study: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/232519630_Passionate_love_and_the_misattribution_of_arousalTheological Anthropology Applications for Sexual/Physical Abuse Victims and Solace Professional Counseling: https://www.solaceprofessionalcounseling.com/Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

How does the body, mind and soul relate to each other? Do we even have a mind or a soul? Why does it matter?Psychology throughout its short history has had numerous conceptions of what makes up a human. But none of them tell the whole story. In this episode I propose:* The human is an inseparable, united whole.* We can still speak practically about different aspects of human nature while holding tight to this unity.* The Eternal Soul needs to be CENTRAL to our understanding of humanity.* Our hope of a radically remade body, mind and soul drives healing in this life.If you are a clinician, pastor or just a person who cares for other people, these ideas matter to how you can effectively understand and encourage those you are tasked to care for.___Fritz Perls in the Gloria tapes: My previous episode on the theology of the composition of man:Solace Professional Counseling: https://www.solaceprofessionalcounseling.com/Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

Our empathy is coveted ground in the culture wars. Who we care about is being monetized and weaponized. We are bombarded with heartbreaking story after story. How can we stay tender yet resilient in the midst of the carnage?In this episode I discuss the nature of empathy (is it toxic? is it sinful?) but also practical tools for maintaining peace and care in a broken world.____Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

In this episode, I compare Marxist, Humanist and Reformed worldviews in their conceptualizations of the nature of suffering, causes of suffering and solution to suffering. However ultimately, the aim of this episode is to inspire an informed hope, strength and even joy in the midst of hardship.Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

The term “teenager” is quite a new invention, developed to describe a unique stage of development that emerged during the industrial revolution. The teen years weren’t always marked by storm and stress. They were marked by continuity and gradual maturity into adulthood. So what changed? In this episode, I discuss how intergenerational relationships, meaningful work and moderately structured identity development can still the waves of the teenage storm.___Article on the history of adolescence: * https://www.jstor.org/stable/349302Studies on Grandparents and other Intergenerational Relationships:* https://www.researchgate.net/publication/360690204_Intergenerational_Activities_Involving_Adolescents_and_Residents_of_Aged_Care_Facilities_A_Scoping_Review* https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0192513X221127021* https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19203161/* https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10514349/Lifeway Faith Retention Study:* https://research.lifeway.com/2023/10/04/the-next-generation-is-leaving-the-faith-earlier-than-you-realize/Studies on NSSI and Suicidal Ideation as a Social Contagion* https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25722129/* https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40175835/* https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6317237/Studies on Eating Disorders as a Social Contagion* https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17258173/* https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18220454/Studies on Gender Dysphoria as a Social Contagion* https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11876199/* https://researchers.one/articles/23.10.00002v1Study on the Importance of Positive Peer Relationships* https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34848899/Studies on Choice Overload and Creativity with Limitations* https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1057740814000916* https://arxiv.org/pdf/2412.12721* https://www.researchgate.net/publication/23547233_Designing_the_Solution_The_Impact_of_Constraints_on_Consumers’_CreativityThe Efficacy of Mentoring Over Extra-curricular Activities* https://dukespace.lib.duke.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/3521ecbb-2783-4f5b-b412-c235681c9e92/contentUnderstanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

I am joined by Dr. John Raymond, therapist and mentor-professor at Redemption Seminary. He shares his theory of counseling informed by existential thought, Bowen’s Family System Theory, Hope Theory and the Transtheoretical Model of Change.___Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

In this episode, I discuss the classic book by Leo Tolstoy, The Death of Ivan Ilyich. The main character’s descent into illness and eventual death forces him to face up to his suffering, his fear of death and the true meaning his life should have had. This beautiful piece of literature offers much to be gleaned for those facing their own crises of meaning.____Sermon on the Beatitudes Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

In this episode, I explore how I work through the change process with clients using a model of change called motivational interviewing. Along the way, we will visit our theology of God’s coming kingdom and how a clear vision of hope informs the change making process.___Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

Are we one thing, two things, three things, four? How our humanity is composed has applications for SA, Chronic Pain and more!I just read some Dr. Suess to my kids so forgive the bad rhymes. In this episode, I discuss how it is important to understand humans as both physical and spiritual when treating a multitude of disorders but especially trauma victims and those suffering from chronic physical ailments.__________Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

In this episode, I get to interview my very favorite guest, my husband. We discuss the human element of personal finance and explore how different factors of we are influence our money management behaviors.Family Focused Financial: https://famfocfinancial.com/__________Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

In this episode we take a round-about rabbit trail through Goethe’s Faust and the original question of psychology to discuss why AI, as human as it seems, cannot be a substitute for true human relationships including therapy.Episode of Young Heretics on Faust: Previous episode of The Created Mind on Being: __________Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

In this episode I interview Sheila Chunis, an experienced counselor, who shares her perspective on how counseling has changed over the decades and how it has influenced culture and vise versa. We also discussing some of the major issues that the field currently faces including technology, AI and the loneliness epidemic.__________Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

The inner workings of our brains have long been a mystery and to a large extent they still are. However what we do know about brain science gives enormous hope for what can be accomplished to heal mental illness.Video of neurons connecting Temple Grandin’s book, The Autistic Brain https://www.amazon.com/Autistic-Brain-Temple-Grandin/dp/0544227735Temple Grandin’s brain scan https://www.lrdc.pitt.edu/schneiderlab/images/HDFT_Grandin2.pngADHD Study https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6870061/__________Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

If I am constantly evolving, never the same, and can be anything I want, what even am I? Is there even an "I" that exists? In this episode, I discuss where we derive our meaning, what our lives are for and the practical application of these concepts to mental health and therapy.__________________________________________________________________________Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

A therapist's review of Abigail Shrier's best-selling book, Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up.__________________________________________________________________________Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

As a therapist and mother of three (one whom is soon to be born), I reflect on mental health factors in pregnancy and new motherhood as well as some biblical applications that this time of life can exemplify.This is my last episode before I go on maternity leave. I will see you all in a few months!______Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

"'Have peace now,’ she said, ‘until the morning! Heed no nightly noises! For nothing passes door and window here save moonlight and starlight and the wind off the hill-top. Good night!’ In this episode, I explore a beautiful example of a therapeutic relationship in action through the example of Tom Bombadil and Goldberry from Lord of the Rings. I also discuss how you can offer an environment of healing for your loved ones who have been through trauma.______Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

Depression rates have risen to staggering proportions in the past several years. In this episode, I discuss this trend as well as a model for understanding and treating depression. I then explore the basis this model has in the wisdom of Ecclesiastes.Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/_______Chart of depression rates: https://news.gallup.com/poll/505745/depression-rates-reach-new-highs.aspx This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

"Physically healthy Dutch woman, 28, decides to be euthanized due to crippling depression." This headline has been making the rounds of news outlets and social media alike. How should we as Christians respond to a cultural push toward euthanasia for mental health? My guest hospice chaplain and pastor, Krag Runzi, relates his experience of ministering to those in the process of dying, explores the value of life and reflects on the tragedy of euthanasia.Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/____Articles which discuss the paradox of orienting one's life toward their own happiness and the benefits of altruism:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3160511/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15901215/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

This episode dives deep into the philosophical assumptions of narrative therapy, an increasingly popular paradigm for understanding the human mind and behavior in therapy. Are we constructing the narrative of our lives in therapy or uncovering it?(Apologies for the sound quality, it does get better in future episodes!)Understanding Psychology from a Christian Perspective E-Course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

Dr. Dawn Irons exposes the double standards of cultural competency when it comes to training counselors to treat clients of faith which is becoming increasingly present at universities and professional organizations.E-course: https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com

Hannah Mills died as a result of the standard treatments for mental illness of her day. Listen to the story of how a foundation of faith led to needed reforms in the field of psychology. Preview my e-course here:https://www.udemy.com/course/psychology-and-christianity/?referralCode=19B7AF26377BF0C154ADMusic by Douglas Hageman https://doughageman.bandcamp.com/  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecreatedmind.substack.com