In this episode of the Key Ministry Podcast, Dr. Steve Grcevich sits down with Dr. Brian Barrineau, pastor of family ministries at Fruit Cove Baptist Church in Florida, to explore what it really looks like to disciple teens with hidden learning disabilities. Together, they unpack the complexity of neurodivergence, comorbidity, family discipleship, and the church’s calling to create spaces of belonging.

Listeners will walk away with practical insight into supporting families navigating ADHD, autism, dyslexia, anxiety, and more — along with encouragement that discipleship is not about perfection, but faithful presence. This conversation will equip church leaders, parents, and volunteers to love well, partner wisely, and pursue gospel-centered inclusion.

From Classroom to Church: A Unique Calling

Before entering pastoral ministry, Dr. Barrineau served as a high school history teacher working extensively with students on IEPs and 504 plans. That early exposure to at-risk learners, combined with later parenting a child with learning differences, shaped his calling to pursue a doctorate in education and research inclusive discipleship. His journey bridges three worlds: educator, parent, and pastor. That perspective allows him to help families navigate both school systems and church environments — offering informed guidance grounded in both research and lived experience.

Understanding Hidden Disabilities

Hidden disabilities often include ADHD, mild to moderate autism, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, sensory processing disorders, and certain auditory or visual processing challenges. Unlike visible disabilities, these conditions may not be obvious at first glance — which can create confusion in ministry settings. Dr. Barrineau emphasizes that many volunteers feel intimidated by disability language. Yet, ministry adjustments are often simple: providing reading support, avoiding public embarrassment, creating structured environments, and building trust with families. He reminds churches that the goal is not perfect execution but consistent love. Families who experience acceptance — even amid imperfection — are far more likely to remain engaged.

Discipleship and Deuteronomy 6

A central theme of the conversation is the role of parents as primary disciplers. Neurodivergence does not remove the call of Deuteronomy 6. Instead, it requires creative application. Dr. Barrineau highlights three areas of formation:

• Orthodoxy — Right belief
• Orthopraxy — Right behavior
• Orthopathy — Right affection or feeling

Neurodivergent children may struggle in one or more of these areas, but that does not disqualify them from spiritual growth. Instead, it invites intentional scaffolding — helping each child grow from where they are.

Mental Health, Identity, and Belonging

Many teens with hidden disabilities wrestle deeply with identity and self-perception. When repeated academic or social struggles go unaddressed, anxiety and depression can take root. The church must be both compassionate and discerning. Dr. Barrineau stresses the importance of knowing when pastoral care reaches its limits and professional mental health support is needed. Healthy churches build vetted referral networks and partner wisely with trusted providers. But above all, belonging matters. When teens believe they are known and loved — by God and by their church community — the groundwork for spiritual resilience is laid.

Good Enough is a Starting Point

One of the most encouraging takeaways from this conversation is the reminder that churches do not have to be perfect to begin. Rejection is the greatest barrier families face. If churches can clear that hurdle — if families feel seen and welcomed — deeper discipleship can follow. Word-of-mouth within disability communities is powerful. One family cared for well often leads to others finding hope and home.

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Resources Mentioned

• Deuteronomy 6
• Individual Spiritual Plans for students
• IEPs and 504 Plans
• Theory of Mind research
• In His Image (special needs ministry model)
• Child Find (early diagnosis referral services)

About the Host & Guest

Dr. Steve Grcevich is a child and adolescent psychiatrist and founder of Key Ministry, dedicated to equipping churches to minister to families impacted by disability and mental health challenges. Dr. Brian Barrineau serves as Pastor of Family Ministries at Fruit Cove Baptist Church in St. Johns, Florida. He is a pastor, researcher, and advocate for inclusive discipleship, committed to helping churches embody gospel-centered inclusion for people of all abilities.