Have you ever swallowed your words to "keep the peace"? For many, church tradition has conflated silence with holiness, leaving us afraid that speaking up equals rebellion. But what is the psychological cost of silencing your own voice?

In this episode of Elisha’s Space, we explore the intersection of faith, tradition, and mental health. Elisha breaks down the "Good Christian Woman" myth and offers a counselor's perspective on how suppression leads to anxiety and resentment. Most importantly, you'll learn practical, respectful ways to find your voice again.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why we confuse "gentleness" with "invisibility."
• The connection between spiritual silence and anxiety/depression.
• How to differentiate between "keeping the peace" and "peacemaking."
• 3 practical steps to start speaking up today.

Connect with Elisha:

• YouTube:

Elisha's Space - YouTube

• Website:

Restoring You Christian Counseling | Catonsville, MD

Keywords: Religious trauma, spiritual abuse, church hurt, Christian women, setting boundaries, speaking up, mental health for Christians.

Are you over 60 and secretly wondering why your anxiety seems to be getting worse, not better? Do you feel guilty, thinking you "should be past this" by now? In this episode, counselor Elisha breaks down the biological and spiritual reasons why anxiety spikes in later life—and why it is NOT a sign of weak faith. We discuss the "smoke detector" of the aging nervous system, the trap of negative religious coping, and gentle, shame-free tools to find peace.

In this episode of Elisha’s Space, we’re talking directly to those of you in your 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond who are still carrying the weight of childhood trauma. Maybe you’ve thought, “I should be over this by now,” or wondered if it’s even worth starting a healing journey at your age. I want you to hear this clearly: it is not too late, you are not behind, and your healing still matters deeply.

Together, we explore why old wounds can still hurt decades later, how your nervous system has been loyally protecting you, and what healing can realistically look like later in life. You’ll hear a brief story of late-life healing, learn gentle nervous system practices you can do right where you are, and get practical steps to create small pockets of safety, compassion, and self-acceptance in your daily life.

This episode is for you if:

• You still feel easily triggered, anxious, or “on edge”
• You minimize your past by telling yourself “others had it worse”
• You struggle with people-pleasing, overworking, or never feeling “enough”
• You’re afraid that opening up old pain will make things worse
• You quietly wonder if it’s too late to change

My hope is that as you listen, you feel seen, less alone, and gently invited into a new relationship with your younger self—one that is kinder, more spacious, and more honest.

If this conversation resonates with you, I’d love for you to:

• Subscribe/follow the podcast so you don’t miss future episodes
• Share this with a friend or loved one who may be healing later in life
• Leave a comment or message with a simple “That was me” if it felt true for you

In an upcoming episode, I’ll be talking about healing when the people who hurt you are still alive—or never apologized. Make sure you’re subscribed if that’s part of your story.

You are not too old to heal. You are not too late. And you are absolutely worth the work.

Content warning: This video discusses spiritual abuse, church trauma, and emotionally unsafe faith environments. Please care for your heart as you watch. 💛

Have you ever left a Bible study feeling smaller, more confused, or secretly afraid of God? In this video, I’m sharing as a counselor how spiritual abuse quietly sneaks into Bible studies and small groups – often disguised as “accountability,” “submission,” or “being biblical.”

We’ll walk through:

• Subtle ways Scripture gets twisted to control, shame, or silence you
• Red flags in Bible study culture: no questions, no disagreement, no boundaries
• How “accountability” can turn into spiritualized bullying
• What your body is telling you when a group is not safe
• What a truly healthy, trauma-informed Bible study actually looks and feels like

If you’ve ever thought, “Something felt off, but I couldn’t name it,” my hope is that this gives you language, clarity, and permission to trust your discernment and your nervous system.

You are not “weak,” “rebellious,” or “unspiritual” for feeling harmed in a Christian space. Your story matters. God is not threatened by your boundaries or your healing process. 🌿

If this resonated with you, you can simply comment: “That was me.” You don’t have to share details to be seen.

For more on spiritual abuse, trauma-informed faith, and gentle healing:

• Subscribe for content on trauma, anxiety, spiritual abuse, and hope
• Watch my other content on faith and nervous system awareness
• Share this with someone who might need language for their experience

You are worthy of safe people and safe spaces — even in Bible study.

“Just forgive and forget.”

If you grew up in church, you’ve probably heard that phrase more times than you can count. But what happens when “forgive and forget” is used to silence pain, minimize abuse, or rush you past your own healing?

In this episode of Elisha’s Space, counselor and author Elisha gently but honestly unpacks the truth about “forgive & forget” in the church from a trauma-informed, biblical perspective.

We’ll explore:

• Why “If you really forgave, you’d be over it by now” is not biblical or psychologically accurate
• The crucial difference between forgiveness and reconciliation (and why you don’t owe anyone access to you)
• How God designed your brain and body to remember danger — and why remembering doesn’t mean you’re bitter or unforgiving
• A healthier, step-by-step framework for forgiveness that honors both your story and your nervous system
• What it looks like to forgive while still holding boundaries, naming abuse, and seeking safety

This conversation is especially for you if:

• You’ve been pressured to “move on” before you were ready
• You’ve been told your triggers or emotions mean you “haven’t really forgiven”
• You’re a survivor of spiritual, emotional, or relational abuse and feel confused about what God actually asks of you
• You love Jesus but feel harmed by how forgiveness has been taught or enforced

You are not broken for still hurting. You are not less spiritual because you remember. Your healing matters to God.

If this episode speaks to you:

• Follow/subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss future conversations
• Share this with a friend who’s wrestling with church, trauma, and forgiveness
• Leave a rating or review to help this space reach more people who need it 💛

Let’s rewrite the narrative around forgiveness — with truth, nuance, and compassion.

Merry Christmas!!

Are you exhausted from always being the “reliable one” — the friend, daughter, partner, or church member who says yes even when you’re breaking inside?

In this episode of Elisha’s Space, counselor and host Elisha shares one simple, powerful phrase you can start using today to interrupt people‑pleasing without becoming cold, harsh, or selfish:

“I care about you, and I can’t do that for you.”

Together, we unpack why saying “no” feels so dangerous in your body, how people‑pleasing is often tied to trauma, anxiety, and fear of abandonment, and how this one phrase can help you honor both your compassion and your limits.

You’ll learn:
• Why your nervous system defaults to “yes” (even when you don’t want to)
• How to say “no” without over‑explaining, apologizing, or panicking
• Practical examples for friends, family, work, church, and relationships
• How to handle the guilt that shows up after you finally set a boundary
• A gentle, faith‑honoring perspective on service, limits, and being made in the image of God

This episode is especially for you if:
• You feel selfish any time you consider saying “no”
• You’re resentful and tired, but still keep over‑giving
• You grew up in chaos, criticism, or emotional neglect
• You’ve been taught that “good” women always sacrifice themselves

Take a breath. You’re not broken. You’re learning a new way to exist in relationships without abandoning yourself.

Listen in, write the phrase down, and try it once this week in a real conversation.

If this episode helps you, share it with a fellow people‑pleaser, and follow the show for more trauma‑informed, faith‑friendly conversations about healing, anxiety, and boundaries.

You’re allowed to care about others without disappearing yourself. 💛

Can a single Bible verse stop a panic attack in 10 seconds? You've seen the claim, but is it true?

Join a Christian counselor who investigates this very question, bridging the gap between ancient faith and modern neuroscience. This episode explores the anatomy of a panic attack and decodes the powerful Bible verse, Philippians 4:6-7. Discover how this scripture is not just a spiritual comfort but a practical, evidence-based process that mirrors clinical grounding techniques used in therapy today.

You will learn:

* What happens in your brain and body during a panic attack.

* How the three steps in Philippians 4—prayer, thanksgiving, and presenting requests—act as a "neurological hack" to reroute your brain from fear to a state of calm.

* A simple, 10-second "Grounding Prayer" that combines the verse with a box breathing exercise, creating a powerful reflex against the wave of panic.

If you struggle with anxiety or are curious about the intersection of faith and mental wellness, this episode provides a life-saving anchor you can use anytime, anywhere.

Does your anxiety always seem to get louder at night?
If your brain waits until you lie down to start the “what if” parade, you are not broken and you are not alone. 🌙

In this podcast episode, counselor Elisha gently unpacks why your anxiety gets worse at night — from both a psychological and faith-based perspective. You’ll learn what’s happening in your brain and body after the sun goes down, why the quiet often brings up our deepest fears, and how to respond with compassion instead of shame.

You’ll walk away with practical, simple tools you can start using tonight to calm your mind, soothe your nervous system, and create a more peaceful nighttime routine.

If you’re tired of dreading bedtime, this conversation will help you see your anxiety as a signal, not your identity — and begin to build a kinder, more grounded relationship with your nervous system.

If this episode resonates with you:

• Subscribe for more faith-integrated conversations about anxiety, trauma, and healing
• Share this with a friend who struggles most at night
• Comment: What time of night is the hardest for you, and what usually comes up? Your story might help someone feel less alone 💛

You are not walking through this in the dark. You are seen, loved, and worth the work of healing.

Are "generational curses" real, or is it trauma passed down through our biology? If you’ve ever felt like you are fighting a battle you didn't start—struggling with the same anxiety, anger, or silence as your parents—this episode is for you.

In this episode of Elisha’s Space, we bridge the gap between faith and psychology to explore Generational Trauma. We dig into what the Bible really says about "the sins of the fathers," unpack the science of epigenetics, and introduce the powerful concept of the Transitional Character—the person chosen to stop the cycle.

You are not cursed. You are simply the one who is healing the injury for your entire family line.

In this episode, we cover:

• Curse vs. Consequence: Why you aren't spiritually cursed, but still carry the wound.
• The Science of Epigenetics: How trauma literally changes our DNA expression.
• The Transitional Character: Practical steps to become the cycle-breaker in your lineage.
• Biblical Tools: How to use the "Holy Pause" to partner with God in your healing.

🕊️ Resources & Links:

• Subscribe to Elisha’s Space for more on healing and growth
• Restoring You Christian Counseling | Catonsville, MD

#GenerationalTrauma #ChristianCounseling #BreakingGenerationalCurses #Epigenetics #FaithAndMentalHealth #ElishasSpace #TraumaHealing #BiblicalPerspective

If you’ve ever felt like your mental health is just one more thing you’re failing at, this episode is for you. In the church, we often hear "pray more" or "have more faith" as the cure for anxiety. But when you are navigating trauma or depression, those big tasks can sometimes feel paralyzing.

In today’s episode, we are ditching the pressure to "fix" everything. Instead, I’m sharing 5 "Micro-Habits"—tiny, 60-second practices that honor your nervous system AND your faith. These are practical, trauma-informed tools to help you find safety in your body and peace in your spirit.

In this episode, we cover:🕊️ Why big spiritual disciplines can sometimes backfire when you're anxious🕊️ How to use the "Palms Up" method to start your day with surrender🕊️ The "Breath Prayer" technique to calm your vagus nerve instantly🕊️ A simple evening routine to stop "revenge bedtime procrastination"

💬 Discussion Question:Which of these 5 micro-habits feels most doable for you today? Let me know in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you.

#ChristianMentalHealth #AnxietyRelief #TraumaHealing #NervousSystem #BiblicalCounseling #ElishasSpace

Do you feel guilty when you can’t "pray away" your panic attacks?

Many Christians get stuck in a loop of shame, wondering if their anxiety is a lack of faith, a spiritual attack, or a sin. In this episode of Elisha’s Space, we are untangling the confusion between spiritual warfare and physical anxiety—so you can stop fighting yourself and start healing.

Elisha breaks down the crucial difference between a spiritual battle and a biological "fight or flight" response and explains why you often need to regulate your body before you can effectively engage your spirit.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• The "Either/Or" Trap: Why the church often mistakes physical symptoms for spiritual failures.
• The Body’s Alarm System: Understanding why your heart races and why prayer doesn't always stop the adrenaline immediately.
• Spiritual Anxiety: How to identify when fear is attacking your identity and trust in God.
• Practical Tools: A step-by-step guide to somatic exercises that calm your nervous system so you can pray with clarity.

Key Quotes:

• "If your car’s engine light comes on, praying over the hood won’t fix a broken transmission. Your body is the same way."
• "Taking medication or going to therapy doesn't mean you don't trust God. It means you are being a good steward of the body He gave you."

Resources Mentioned:

• Video: Why Your Body Freezes During Trauma (And How to Unfreeze)
• Book a session with Elisha: Restoring You Christian Counseling | Catonsville, MD

Connect with Elisha:

• YouTube: Elisha's Space
• Instagram: Elisha Lee (@elishasspace) • Instagram photos and videos
• Website: Restoring You Christian Counseling | Catonsville, MD

Support the Show:If this episode helped you, please leave a review and share it with a friend who needs to hear this message.

Keywords: Christian counseling, spiritual warfare, panic attacks, nervous system regulation, faith and mental health, somatic healing, anxiety relief for Christians, religious trauma.

When anxiety feels overwhelming, sometimes we need more than just words—we need to signal safety to our bodies. 🌿 In this guided Christian meditation for anxiety, we combine somatic grounding techniques with the healing power of Scripture to help you find true rest.

If your mind is racing or your chest feels tight, this is your safe space to pause. Join Elisha for a trauma-informed session that invites the Prince of Peace into your chaos. We will focus on regulating the nervous system through breathwork and anchoring our hearts in God’s promises.

In this episode, we cover:

• Somatic breathing to calm the physical symptoms of anxiety
• Healing scriptures to guard your mind (Psalm 94:19, Philippians 4:6-7)
• A guided visualization to release your burdens to Jesus
• Practical tools for anxiety relief that you can use anywhere

🎧 Listen to this when: You feel a panic attack coming on, before sleep, or whenever you need a reminder that you are held.

📖 Scriptures Used:

• Psalm 94:19 - "When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy."
• Philippians 4:6-7 - "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts..."

🌿 About Elisha's Space:Welcome to a sanctuary for healing, growth, and authentic conversations. Hosted by Elisha, a counselor and author, we explore the intersection of faith, mental health, and church hurt recovery.

#ChristianMeditation #AnxietyRelief #SomaticHealing #ScriptureForAnxiety #BiblicalMeditation #MentalHealth #FaithAndHealing #ElishasSpace

Have you ever felt too anxious to pray? You aren't alone. In this episode, Elisha explains the biology behind "fight or flight" and why traditional prayer can sometimes feel impossible when you're triggered. Learn how to use Breath Prayer to stimulate your Vagus Nerve, lower your cortisol, and reconnect with God—not through striving, but through stillness.

Key Takeaways:

• Why anxiety blocks your ability to focus on prayer.
• The science of the Vagus Nerve and safety.
• A guided 3-minute Breath Prayer session.

Resources Mentioned:

• Video: How to Regulate Your Nervous System in 60 Seconds

If the place that was supposed to be your sanctuary became the source of your deepest pain, you are not alone. In this video, we discuss how to heal from church hurt and navigate the complex emotions of religious trauma and spiritual abuse.

Leaving a toxic church environment can feel like a betrayal—not just by people, but by God. As a counselor, I want to validate your experience and offer you a clinical path forward. We will walk through 4 practical steps to help you separate your spirituality from the pain of the past, grieve the loss of your community, and redefine safety on your own terms.

We cover:

• Why "church hurt" is a real injury that needs validation.
• How to separate God from the "gatekeepers" who hurt you.
• The importance of grieving the loss of your church community.
• Setting boundaries to protect your peace moving forward.

🔔 Subscribe to Elisha’s Space for more on healing, growth, and authentic conversations:

Have you ever been told that your anxiety is just a "lack of faith"? Or that questioning a leader is the same as questioning God? In this video, we dive deep into the silent epidemic of spiritual abuse. As a counselor, I help you identify the 3 clear signs of spiritual manipulation so you can distinguish between biblical correction and toxic control.

If you’ve left a church service feeling more shame than freedom, this is for you. We discuss how scripture is weaponized, the danger of isolated authority, and why performance-based acceptance is not the Gospel. You are not crazy, and healing is possible.

Discover the vital connection between sexual health and cardiovascular wellness in this groundbreaking episode of Elisha's Space, a counseling show dedicated to authentic conversations about healing and personal development. Join host Elisha and expert guest Dr Elliott Justin, founder and CEO of FirmTech, as they explore the latest innovations in sexual health technology, including smart devices like the FirmTech ring. They discuss how data-driven insights can empower men and women to take charge of their intimate well-being and personal growth. From debunking myths and reducing stigma to sharing real-life stories and actionable advice, this episode offers valuable perspectives on trauma recovery, sexual wellness, and fostering connection. Perfect for anyone interested in personal development, relationship health, and cutting-edge medical advancements.

Get more information about Firm Tech here:

In this compelling episode of Elisha’s Space Podcast, we explore the powerful connection between faith, mindset, and personal development in achieving real estate success. Host Elisha engages in an authentic conversation with Armando Roman, a self-made entrepreneur and real estate broker, who shares his inspiring journey overcoming social challenges and trauma to build a thriving business. This episode offers valuable insights into confidence-building, community support, and personal growth stories rooted in resilience and faith-based principles. Perfect for listeners interested in counseling, trauma recovery, and personal growth, Armando’s experience provides practical tips and spiritual guidance for those seeking motivation and abundance. Tune in now for uplifting stories and actionable advice that aligns with Elisha's mission of healing and authentic conversations.

Explore effective counseling approaches to men's mental health as Licensed Clinical Social Worker Mordy Gottlieb shares insights on healing trauma, overcoming shame, and rebuilding self-esteem through psychodrama. This episode of Elisha's Space, offers authentic conversations on trauma recovery and personal growth stories. Learn practical strategies to break the stigma surrounding therapy, create safe emotional spaces, and support men on their journey to personal development and mental wellness. Essential listening for anyone passionate about counseling, mental health, and healing.

In this heart-expanding episode of Elisha Space, host Elisha engages in a profound counseling conversation with Morty Gottlieb, founder of the Game Changer Group. Morty shares his powerful journey of childhood trauma and healing, emphasizing the importance of feeling safe in one's body for emotional recovery. This episode explores the impact of trauma on mental health, the role of comforting through food, body shame in men, and the transformative power of embodied movement. Listeners will gain practical insights on building safe communities, healing through authentic relationships, and embracing vulnerability as a crucial path to personal development and faith-based counseling. Tune in for a deeply authentic conversation about overcoming depression and trauma through compassionate counseling techniques.

More Information About Mordy: https://thegamechangergroup.com/

For More Information About Elisha:

Mindfulness Adult ColoringAmazon.com: Mindfulness Biblical Affirmations of Forgiveness and Grace: An Adult Coloring Journey to Peace and Restoration: 9798323577903: Lee, Elisha: Books

The Mental Health HandbookAmazon.com: The Mental Health Handbook: Strategies for Self-Care and Resilience: 9798883565044: Lee, Ms. Elisha S: Books

Restoring You Christian CounselingRestoring You Christian Counseling | Catonsville, MD

In this episode of Elisha's Space, a counseling show dedicated to authentic conversations on healing and personal development, discover expert insights on transformative parenting. Todd Sarner, MFT, discusses how secure attachment, mindful parenting rituals, and trauma-informed strategies help raise resilient children. Learn practical counseling approaches for overcoming parenting challenges, fostering emotional connection, and nurturing long-lasting resilience in kids. Whether you're navigating depression, trauma recovery, or parenting struggles, this conversation equips you with valuable tools to create a supportive family culture.