What does it take for a church to become a safe place for people struggling with mental health challenges?
In this episode of
Key Ministry: The Podcast, Dr. Steve Grcevich welcomes Kimberly Britt, Executive Director of Anchor International, for a practical conversation about how churches can move beyond good intentions and create environments where people feel seen, supported, and connected.
Kimberly shares how Anchor International equips churches through peer support groups, facilitator training, and Mental Health Champions Training. Together, they discuss why many churches hesitate to engage in mental health ministry, the importance of building a culture of preparedness before launching programs, and how ordinary church members can play a significant role in supporting individuals and families navigating mental health challenges.
In This Episode, Kimberly Discusses:
- Why the church should be the safest place to talk about difficult mental health struggles
- How Anchor International equips churches through training and peer support programs
- The difference between creating a mental health program and cultivating a culture of care
- Why confidence, not compassion, is often the missing ingredient in church mental health ministry
- How Mental Health Champions Training prepares church members to recognize and respond to mental health needs
- The role of peer support groups in creating belonging and meaningful relationships
- Common reasons churches hesitate to engage in mental health ministry
- Practical ways volunteers can champion mental health support within their congregation
- How churches can support entire families impacted by mental health challenges
- What effective, compassionate responses look like when someone is struggling
Key Takeaways
- Mental health ministry is most effective when it becomes part of a church’s culture rather than a standalone program.
- Churches often have compassionate people who want to help but lack confidence in how to respond.
- Safe, prepared communities create environments where people are more willing to share their struggles.
- Peer support groups can provide meaningful relationships, practical encouragement, and spiritual support.
- Training equips ordinary church members, not just professionals, to recognize and respond to mental health needs.
- Understanding mental health challenges helps churches care more effectively for individuals and families.
- Volunteer leaders often play a crucial role in championing mental health initiatives within a congregation.
- Small, intentional steps can help churches become more welcoming and supportive for people facing mental health challenges.
Resources Mentioned
- Anchor International
- Mental Health Champions Training
- Anchor Peer Support Groups
- Disability & the Church Conference
About the Guest
Kimberly Britt is the Executive Director of Anchor International, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to helping churches provide Christ-centered mental health support. A licensed mental health counselor, Kimberly combines professional expertise with personal experience navigating trauma, anxiety, ADHD, and eating disorder recovery. Through training and peer support initiatives, she equips churches to build supportive communities where individuals and families can find belonging, hope, and practical care.
About the Host
Dr. Steve Grcevich is the Founder and President of Key Ministry, an organization dedicated to equipping churches to welcome and disciple individuals and families impacted by disability, mental health, and trauma.
