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Saint James PC(USA)

Saint James

Presbyterian Church

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Mental Health Ministry

Whole in Mind, Body, and Spirit

A ministry for anyone carrying more than they can say out loud. Here, faith and mental health care walk together.

"I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly."

John 10:10

You Do Not Have to Carry It Alone

Many of us were taught to stay strong and handle things on our own. We pray, we push through, and we keep showing up for everyone else. God never asked us to carry our burdens in silence. Caring for your mental health is not a sign of weak faith. It is part of the abundant life Christ offers.

This ministry grew out of listening to our congregation. When we asked what kind of support would help, many of you spoke about the weight of caring for aging parents and loved ones. Others named anxiety and depression, and many wanted better tools for communication and boundaries in their closest relationships. Our Mental Health Ministry is our response: a faith-grounded place to speak honestly and find the care you need.

What We Offer

Faith and Mental Health Sermon Series

Our sermon series explores what Scripture and our tradition teach about the mind and the heart. These messages affirm that faith and professional care belong together, and they open the door to deeper conversation in our workshops and small groups.

Small Groups

Small groups offer a smaller, trusted setting to reflect on what you are learning and encourage one another. Participants practice new tools together and carry them into their families, friendships, and community.

Counseling and Referrals

When you are ready for individual support, we can help you take that step. We provide a list of licensed mental health providers, and we also offer an in-house counseling option with Shyla Powell, MA, LMHC, a licensed mental health counselor who is part of our church family.

Workshops

Our workshops pair current mental health research with faith-based wisdom so you leave with tools you can use right away. Topics include:

  • Anxiety and depression
  • Grief and loss
  • Trauma and healing
  • Stress management
  • Caregiver stress
  • Healthy boundaries
  • Spiritual practices that support mental wellness
  • Mental health first aid for ministry leaders and staff

Your Privacy Matters

We know that sharing something personal takes trust.

Conversations in our small groups stay within the group, and any request for counseling or provider information is handled privately by our ministry leaders. You can participate at whatever level feels right to you, whether that means listening to a sermon, attending a workshop, or reaching out for one-on-one support.

Who This Ministry Is For

This ministry is open to adults and young adults in our congregation and to anyone in our community who wants to understand mental health through the lens of faith. It is for the person walking through grief or worry, for the family hoping to communicate with more care, and for the ministry leader who wants the words and training to respond with compassion.

Meet Our Ministry Leaders

Rev. Dr. Phanta Lansden, BSW, MDiv, DMin

Mrs. Shyla Powell, MA, LMHC

Elder Mona Edwards, JD

Executive and Leadership Development Coach