In this episode of Key Ministry the Podcast, Dr. Steve Grcevich is joined by Kimberly Britt, Executive Director of Anchor International, to talk about one of the most pressing needs in today’s church—mental health support that is both Christ-centered and practical.

Kimberly shares how churches can move from uncertainty and stigma to becoming safe, supportive communities where people can talk about hard things. Drawing from her personal journey and professional experience, she unpacks how peer support, training, and simple next steps can equip everyday church members—not just professionals—to care well for those struggling with mental health challenges.

Together, they explore what it looks like to build a culture of preparedness before launching programs, why confidence (not just compassion) is often the missing piece, and how churches can take meaningful steps toward mental health outreach and discipleship.

If you’ve ever thought, “I know this matters… I just don’t know what to do,” this conversation will give you clarity—and a place to start.

🔑 In This Episode

• Why the church should be the safest place to talk about mental health
• The difference between starting programs and building a culture of care
• How peer support groups create belonging and lasting impact
• What keeps churches from engaging in mental health ministry
• The role of a “mental health champion” inside your church
• Practical ways to support individuals and families navigating mental health challenges
• What NOT to say—and how to respond with compassion and confidence

💬 Key Quotes

• “The church should be the safest place to talk about really hard things.”
• “People have the compassion—they just don’t have the confidence.”
• “We’re not asking churches to start another program—we’re asking them to equip their people.”
• “Support groups thrive when the culture of the church is already safe and prepared.”

🧠 Main Topics Covered

1. What Anchor International Does

• Trains churches to build Christ-centered mental health support systems
• Provides curriculum + facilitator training for peer support groups
• Offers both structured 8-week groups and ongoing support models

2. The Power of Peer Support

• Facilitated by trained leaders, not necessarily professionals
• Builds meaningful relationships grounded in Scripture
• Helps people feel seen, known, and supported

3. Mental Health Champions Training

• Online, scalable training for entire congregations
• Equips people to recognize and respond to mental health needs
• Focuses on practical, real-life application—not just theory

4. The Biggest Gap in Churches

• Churches care—but often don’t know what to say or do
• Fear, stigma, and lack of understanding create hesitation
• Training builds confidence to act with compassion

5. Where to Start If Your Church Isn’t There Yet

• Listen to leadership concerns
• Identify whether barriers are fear, misunderstanding, or theology
• Start small with training and volunteer-led initiatives

📌 Resources Mentioned

• Anchor International (training + group curriculum)
• Mental Health Champions Training
• Disability & the Church Conference (Mental Health Track)

👤 About the Guest

Kimberly Britt is the Executive Director of Anchor International, a nonprofit equipping churches to provide Christ-centered mental health support. A licensed mental health counselor, Kimberly brings both professional expertise and personal experience with trauma, anxiety, ADHD, and eating disorder recovery. She is passionate about empowering churches to become safe, supportive communities for those navigating mental health challenges.

🎙️ 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.