E230. Why Caring for Others Requires Caring for Yourself with Dan Allender
What happens when the people caring for everyone else realize they need care too?
In this episode of The Care Ministry Podcast, Laura Howe is joined by Dr. Dan Allender, therapist, author, professor, and founder of the Allender Center. Together they explore the connection between story, trauma, healing, and spiritual formation, and why caring for others requires us to tend to our own hearts first.
Dan shares the deeply personal story that shaped his life’s work and discusses how unaddressed pain often continues shaping us in ways we do not recognize. Laura and Dan also unpack why healing is rarely quick or linear, the role of community in restoration, and what ministry leaders need to understand as they support others through grief, trauma, and recovery.
This conversation is especially helpful for pastors, care leaders, and helpers who spend much of their time supporting others but may be realizing there are parts of their own story that still need attention.
Quotes
"The more we grow, the more we know how far we have to grow."
Dan Allender
"My God has known my sin today and a month from now and still delights in me."
Dan Allender
"So many of us who serve others know how to offer good comfort. But then the simple question is: how are you in receiving comfort?"
Dan Allender
"Healing is not something we arrive at. It's a journey of truth-telling, grief, courage, and relationship."
Laura Howe
Resources
Learn more about the Allender Center and their story-based approach to healing and spiritual formation
Connect with Hope Made Strong
Website: HopeMadeStrong.org
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