In this episode of Silent Service, Will Diesel sits down with therapist Madison Thomas for an honest conversation about faith, mental health, and the gentle work of healing. Madison shares her journey as a trauma therapist, why mental health is as vital as physical health, and how practices like EMDR can transform pain into peace.

Together they reflect on the role of faith in times of uncertainty, the importance of boundaries and presence in relationships, and the deeper meaning of giving—not just possessions, but of ourselves. Madison’s eloquence and wisdom offer a reminder that love heals, gentleness transforms, and every person is worthy of grace.

0:00 – Welcome & introduction of guest Madison Thomas
2:00 – “Be more interested than interesting” — first impressions
3:00 – MEPS check-in: mental, emotional, physical, spiritual
6:00 – Laying the groundwork: transition, curiosity, and hope
8:00 – Faith as a safe and loving attachment
10:00 – From California to Texas: faith, culture, and community
12:00 – Making others comfortable & the path to therapy
17:00 – Breaking stigma: why mental health is as vital as physical health
21:00 – Therapy as connection: love, body, and spirit
23:00 – Awe in breakthrough moments — meaning vs. “rewarding”
25:00 – The hardest part of therapy: boundaries & relationships
29:00 – Listening vs. guiding — adapting to clients’ needs
31:00 – Even therapists need therapy: practicing what you preach
32:00 – Will’s story from the domestic violence shelter
34:00 – Working with children in therapy: patience & play
36:00 – EMDR explained: reprocessing trauma with safety and peace
42:00 – Closing sessions well: leaving clients grounded
44:00 – Giving as a spiritual practice — The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran
47:00 – C.S. Lewis, love, and giving without conditions
53:00 – Beliefs as the lens shaping our world
55:00 – Giving time and presence — stories of listening
57:00 – Final reflections & gratitude

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