General Sessions
Breakout Session 1 – Saturday @ 10:30
Understanding Trauma Through a Biblical Lens (Foundational)
John Henderson
What is trauma, and how should we think about it as Christians? In this breakout, we will define trauma and explore its effects on the body, mind, and soul. More importantly, we will consider how Scripture speaks with depth and compassion to those who suffer. Through a biblical lens, we’ll examine how God’s truth brings clarity, comfort, and hope to the confusing and painful realities of trauma.
Creating a Culture of Care and Counseling in the Local Church (Foundational)
Lee Lewis
This breakout will explore the unique role of the church in providing counseling care. Participants will gain insights into how the local church can create a culture of biblical care and support, including integrating formal counseling ministries with the everyday discipleship and pastoral care of the congregation. The session will address practical ways to equip church leaders and laypeople for counseling and to begin developing a culture of care.
The Language of Lament: Finding Hope in God Through Suffering (Intermediate)
Justin Greene
Suffering can leave us feeling isolated and unsure of how to approach God. In this breakout, we’ll rediscover the biblical language of lament—prayer that invites us to bring our pain, questions, and grief honestly before the Lord. Whether you’re experiencing suffering yourself or walking with others through it, this session will encourage you to find hope in the God who hears, responds, and redeems.
Responding to Crisis Situations in the Church: Handling Disclosures of Abuse, Tragedy, and Crisis with Wisdom (Advanced/Specialized)
Matt MacCollin
Ministry often places us on the front lines of crisis—when abuse is disclosed, tragedy strikes, or sin and suffering overwhelm. In this breakout, we’ll explore how to step into these “impossible situations” with biblical wisdom, the armor of God, and the hope of the gospel. Together, we’ll consider how to respond faithfully and compassionately, bringing truth, healing, and help through God’s Word. “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)
Optional Lunch Session – Saturday @ 11:45
(Cost is $15; sign up during registration; seats are limited)
PNW Connection Lunch: Counseling Care in the Church
Emily Dempster
This lunch is for anyone interested in learning more about counseling and care within the local church—and connecting with others who share that passion.
Breakout Session 2 – Saturday @ 1:30
God’s Faithfulness: Renewed Hope in the Depths of Despair (Foundational)
Shauna Van Dyke
How do we find hope when despair surrounds us? This breakout, rooted in Lamentations 3, will unpack Jeremiah’s powerful example. Despite overwhelming physical and emotional misery, Jeremiah found renewed hope by intentionally recalling God’s unchanging faithfulness. This session will equip you to do the same—to look upward, call to mind the truths of who God is, and ignite a deeper affection for Him and His Word. Learn practical ways to apply these truths as you care for and minister to those navigating their own struggles.
Walking with Parents: Biblical Counseling for Families Navigating Neurodivergent Needs (Intermediate)
Angie Hilker
This session explores how to compassionately counsel and support parents of neurodivergent children (e.g., children with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorders, etc.) through a biblical lens. It addresses the emotional, spiritual, and relational challenges parents face and offers gospel-centered hope and practical shepherding.
Biblical Counseling for Childhood Abuse Survivors (Advanced/Specialized)
John Henderson
The deep wounds of childhood sexual abuse leave lasting pain and confusion. How can we understand such suffering, and how do we minister wisely and compassionately to those who have endured it? This breakout gives a biblical framework for walking with survivors of abuse, showing how God meets the afflicted with both grace and truth…demonstrating how the gospel brings light, hope, and redemption into even the darkest places.
Understanding and Breaking Free from Codependency (Advanced/Specialized)
Chris Minott
It is easy to get confused or burned out when trying to determine how much of another’s burden God is calling us to bear, and when burden bearing becomes enabling. Learn to recognize what codependency is, what it looks like, where it comes from, and how to make adjustments that will empower you to walk in loving burden-bearing that brings life to you and those you are helping.
Breakout Session 3 – Saturday @ 2:45
Wisdom Adorns the Disgraced (Foundational)
Kristin Silva Linder
Tragedy and trauma often leave us feeling exposed, ashamed, and disgraced. But Proverbs offers a different perspective—one in which wisdom doesn’t merely instruct but adorns, bringing dignity where shame once ruled. In this breakout, we’ll explore how godly wisdom restores honor in the midst of disgrace and consider tangible ways to apply that truth as we care for others and navigate our own stories.
Demystifying PTSD (Intermediate)
Curtis Solomon
Receiving the diagnosis of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can be scary or even debilitating to a person. It can also be intimidating to a biblical counselor who wants to help. The goal of this session is to pull back the shroud of mystery that makes PTSD so scary for both the person and the helper. Whether you’re a pastor, counselor, mentor, or friend, this session will equip you with a compassionate and theologically sound framework to walk wisely with those struggling through the aftermath of trauma.
Avoiding Burnout: Caring for Trauma Survivors Without Becoming Overwhelmed (Intermediate)
Beth Claes
Walking with people who have experienced trauma can be emotionally overwhelming and depleting for the helper. While we are called to bear one another’s burdens (and we are in helper roles because that’s exactly what we want to do), recognizing the potential impact of secondary trauma and compassion fatigue can help us be better equipped to care well. This track will explore red flags of secondary trauma, biblical wisdom for the helper navigating trauma care, and how we can find rest in God’s heart toward the helper and the hurting.
When Vows are Broken: Biblical Counseling for Betrayal Trauma in Marriage (Advanced/Specialized)
Aaron & Angi Greene
Betrayal in marriage leaves deep wounds, affecting both spouses and the relationship. How can we help couples find hope and healing when vows are broken? In this workshop, we’ll explore the effects of betrayals like pornography and infidelity and turn to Scripture for guidance and practical help to move couples towards healing and restoration.
