Episode 15: Faith, Depression, and Purpose: A Conversation with Paula Hilborn

07/07/2025 49 min Episodio 15
Episode 15: Faith, Depression, and Purpose: A Conversation with Paula Hilborn

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Episode Synopsis

In this powerful episode, I sat down with my friend Paula—a licensed professional counselor with a heart for helping others through the lens of faith. Paula shared her deeply personal journey from struggling with depression as a teenager to discovering her purpose through Christian counseling. She opened up about her experiences with postpartum depression, a spiritual crisis moment during the pandemic, and how God radically intervened in her life.We talked about what it looks like to bring Jesus into mental health spaces, the power of sharing your story, and how biblical truth can ground us in seasons of emotional and spiritual struggle. If you've ever felt alone in your pain or unsure of how to support someone walking through it—this conversation will encourage you, equip you, and point you back to the Healer.Topics We Covered:Paula’s personal testimony: from religion to relationship with JesusHer teenage battle with depression and the surprising gift of music as healingThe supernatural encounter that changed everything during the pandemicWhy Christian counseling matters—and how to find onePractical ways to support someone in emotional distressUsing Scripture to combat shame, isolation, and fearHow to integrate faith, psychology, and spiritual disciplinesPaula’s recommended resources for biblical counseling and soul careScriptures We Mentioned:2 Timothy 3:16–17 – On using God’s Word to equip and counselJob’s story – A reminder that presence often matters more than solutionsPhilippians 4:7 – The peace of God that surpasses understandingResources Paula Recommends:Boundaries for the Soul by Dr. Alison CookTheology, Spirituality, and Psychology by Dr. Stephen P. GreggoJackie Hill Perry's Bible teachingFaith-based podcasts and worship playlistsMeditation on Scripture and the Holy Spirit (not just secular mindfulness)Final Thoughts:You don’t need to have it all together to seek help. Paula reminds us that Jesus meets us in the mess and uses our pain for purpose. If you’re in a season of struggle, don’t stay silent. You’re not alone—and healing is possible.Need someone to talk to? Reach out. DM me, or use the links below to find a Christian counselor near you.Connect with Paula:Psychology Today ProfileWebsite: [Coming Soon]Want More Faith + Fire?Make sure you’re subscribed to Thrive Through the Fire for more episodes that blend real-life struggles with biblical hope.Leave a review if this episode blessed you—it helps others find the show.