Mental Health and the Church with James Ruark – a course reflection from Josphat Madziyire:
Dear AIM Institute Team,
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the Mental Health and the Church course [taught by James Ruark]. As a Deacon serving in the church, with a particular focus on the youth of our generation, this course has been a timely and eye-opening experience.
The integration of biblical principles with therapeutic approaches offered a balanced and holistic framework for supporting individuals facing mental health challenges, substance abuse, and emotional trauma. I was especially impacted by the discussion on the Stages of Change (by Prochaska and DiClemente), which helped me understand the recovery journey and how the church can provide compassionate, non-judgmental support through each stage.
The course challenged the long-held “pray it away” mindset and replaced it with a deeper understanding of faith and therapy working together, reducing stigma and promoting complete healing—spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.
The lessons on marriage therapy, including the Five Love Languages, and parenting counseling skills were also highly practical and relevant. They equipped me with tools I am already beginning to apply in ministry when working with families and couples facing relational or emotional strain.
This course has equipped me not only with knowledge but also with the confidence to support others more effectively. I am grateful for the excellence with which the material was presented and the spiritual sensitivity that underpinned the entire learning experience.
Thank you for your dedication to equipping the church to be a place of healing and restoration.
Warm regards,
Josphat Madziyire
Zimbabwe
