PODCAST NOTES: Mental Health in Ministry with Dr. Bryan Loney

THE CRISIS: Between 2015 and 2023, pastors reporting excellent mental and emotional well-being collapsed from 39% to 14%. Our leaders are carrying weight they were never meant to carry alone. This conversation addresses the mental health crisis affecting church leaders and outlines the path forward.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• The shocking reality: Only 27% of churches have a plan to assist families affected by mental illness—73% are flying blind
• Why anxiety is a discipleship issue, not just a mental health problem
• How churches can partner with experts without becoming counseling centers
• The three-tier approach: Educational resources, triage care, and leader care for pastors
• Why we need to move from reactive mode to proactive discipleship in mental health

WHO IS DR. BRYAN LOWNEY: Dr. Bryan Loney stands at the unique intersection of clinical expertise and pastoral heart. With doctoral training in clinical psychology and years in pastoral ministry, Bryan leads the Church Mental Health Partnership at Harbor Christian Counseling in Boston. His personal battle with severe anxiety fuels his mission to equip churches for proactive care. Bryan speaks both languages—clinical and pastoral—making him the bridge churches need to care for hurting people with biblical truth and professional wisdom.

CONNECT WITH DR. BRYAN LONEY:

• Website:harborchristiancounseling.com/cmhp
• Email: [email protected]
• Free initial consultation available for church leaders

YOUR NEXT STEP: Don't carry the burden alone. Reach out. Get connected. Get help. The church should be the safest place to bring your burdens.