What happens when a pastor secretly battles shame, addiction, and a double life?

In this powerful episode of Mental Health Matters for Christians, Dr. Mike Courtney shares his raw and honest story—from growing up in a broken home to becoming a successful pastor… while hiding deep struggles with shame and sexual addiction. After years of secrecy, everything came crashing down—costing him his family, his ministry, and his reputation.

But that wasn’t the end of his story.

At rock bottom, Mike encountered the truth of God’s love in a way that changed everything. What followed was a long, humbling journey of healing, restoration, and redemption—including the rebuilding of his marriage and relationships with his sons, and the creation of a thriving Christian counseling ministry helping thousands each year.

This conversation dives deep into:

• The roots of shame and addiction
• Why pastors (and Christians) hide their struggles
• The connection between faith and mental health
• What real healing actually looks like
• How God redeems even our worst failures

If you’ve ever struggled with shame, hidden sin, addiction, or feeling like you’re beyond redemption—this episode is for you.

• Clinical psychologist, former pastor
• Founder of a nonprofit Christian counseling center, Branches in Murfreesboro, TN
• Author of Failure and How I Achieved It Connect with Mike

  Website: https://www.branches.org/

  Connect with Christine

  Website: https://www.worthycreations.org/