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Hosted by John Sternfels, The Therapeutic Disclosure Process: A Path to Healing and Trust is a podcast dedicated to guiding individuals and couples through the complexities of therapeutic disclosure after relational betrayal. As a National Board-Certified Counselor (NCC) and the owner of NorthPoint Professional Counseling Inc., John brings his expertise in marriage restoration, sexual addiction recovery, and partner betrayal trauma to help listeners understand the role of disclosure in the healing journey.

Why is Therapeutic Disclosure Important?

When relational betrayal occurs—whether through infidelity, pornography use, or other forms of secrecy—the foundation of trust is shattered. The betrayed partner is often left feeling confused, unsafe, and emotionally devastated. In these moments, many unfaithful partners believe that withholding details or minimizing the truth will protect their spouse from further pain. However, partial truths and continued deception only deepen the wounds and make healing impossible.

A structured, professionally guided disclosure is a crucial step toward true reconciliation and emotional restoration. Here’s why:

✔️ Rebuilding Trust: Full transparency is essential for rebuilding trust. Betrayed partners need to know that their spouse is no longer hiding anything from them.

✔️ Restoring Safety: Healing cannot begin in an environment of secrecy and dishonesty. Disclosure helps create a foundation of truth and emotional safety.

✔️ Validating the Betrayed Partner’s Reality: Many betrayed partners struggle with gaslighting, self-doubt, and an inability to piece together what really happened. Disclosure helps validate their experiences and emotions.

✔️ Preventing Future Triggers: Without a full understanding of the betrayal, a partner is left guessing, which can lead to unexpected triggers and ongoing distress. Knowing the whole truth allows for a more predictable healing process.

✔️ Allowing for True Forgiveness and Healing: Forgiveness cannot be forced or rushed. However, it becomes possible when the betrayer takes full accountability, shows genuine remorse, and commits to honesty moving forward.

Who is This Podcast For?

✔️ Betrayed partners seeking truth, validation, and healing
✔️ Individuals who have betrayed their spouse and want to rebuild trust
✔️ Couples looking for guidance in navigating full disclosure
✔️ Therapists and professionals wanting deeper insights into the process

This episode of The Therapeutic Disclosure Process provides insightful guidance, practical steps, and encouragement to help individuals and couples move forward with clarity and confidence.

Tune in and take the next step toward healing and trust.

John Sternfels, LPC, NCC, CSAT, CMAT, CCPS, C-SASI
Owner/Clinical Director of NorthPoint Professional Counseling
Counselor and Author

Books Available:

• A Partner's Guide To Truth & Healing
• Behind The Smile: Healing From Abuse, Trauma, and Betrayal
• DOWNLOAD for Parents: Sex, Social Media, and Secrets
• SEX: Secular, Relativistic-Cultural or Biblical? Sex Across Perspectives

Send us a text

Sex. It’s everywhere—on our screens, in our culture, and shaping how we think about relationships, identity, and intimacy. But with so many competing voices—secular ideologies, cultural relativism, and biblical truth—how do we separate fact from fiction?

In this eye-opening episode, counselor and author John Sternfels explores his upcoming book, SEX: Secular, Relativistic-Cultural, or Biblical? He will tackle the tough questions:

• How has modern culture redefined sex, and what’s the impact on relationships?
• What messages are we absorbing—consciously or not—from secular and relativistic perspectives?
• How does biblical truth offer a countercultural approach to sex, intimacy, and human connection?

This isn’t just another conversation about sex—it’s a deep dive into the narratives shaping our world and our hearts. Whether you’re searching for clarity, healing, or a stronger biblical foundation, this discussion will challenge what you think you know and offer a refreshing, truth-centered perspective. Don’t miss it!

Join John and tune in for an engaging discussion that cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of one of the most debated topics of our time.

John Sternfels, LPC, NCC, CSAT, CMAT, CCPS, C-SASI
Owner/Clinical Director of NorthPoint Professional Counseling
Counselor and Author

Books Available:

• A Partner's Guide To Truth & Healing
• Behind The Smile: Healing From Abuse, Trauma, and Betrayal
• DOWNLOAD for Parents: Sex, Social Media, and Secrets
• SEX: Secular, Relativistic-Cultural or Biblical? Sex Across Perspectives

Send us a text

In this episode, counselor and author, John Sternfels will dive into the complex and often misunderstood topic of codependency in marriage. Many couples struggle with unhealthy relational patterns where one partner becomes overly reliant on the other for emotional validation, self-worth, or decision-making. This imbalance can lead to resentment, anxiety, and a loss of individual identity.

Join John as he will explore:
✔️ What codependency looks like in a marriage
✔️ How past wounds and childhood experiences can contribute to codependent behaviors
✔️ Practical steps to establish healthy emotional boundaries
✔️ Strategies for fostering mutual respect, trust, and individual growth

Whether you're in a codependent relationship or want to strengthen your marriage, this episode will provide insight, tools, and hope for creating a healthier, more fulfilling connection with your spouse.

Tune in now and take the first step toward breaking free from codependency!

John Sternfels, LPC, NCC, CSAT, CMAT, CCPS, C-SASI
Owner/Clinical Director of NorthPoint Professional Counseling
Counselor and Author

Books Available:

• A Partner's Guide To Truth & Healing
• Behind The Smile: Healing From Abuse, Trauma, and Betrayal
• DOWNLOAD for Parents: Sex, Social Media, and Secrets
• SEX: Secular, Relativistic-Cultural or Biblical? Sex Across Perspectives

Send us a text

In this episode, counselor and author, John Sternfels introduces his new book, "DOWNLOAD For Parents." DOWNLOAD is a crucial guide for today’s parents navigating the digital world with their children. Technology has transformed how our kids interact, learn, and socialize. Still, it has also introduced new challenges—exposure to harmful content, screen addiction, and online dangers that many parents feel unprepared to handle.

DOWNLOAD For Parents is designed to equip parents and grandparents, with the knowledge and tools to safeguard their children from digital pitfalls while fostering open, honest conversations about online behavior. In this discussion, I break down what every parent needs to know, including:

✅ The impact of excessive screen time on mental health
✅ How to talk to kids about digital safety without fear-based tactics
✅ Strategies for setting healthy boundaries with technology
✅ The role of parental modeling in shaping digital habits

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the fast-changing online world and want to protect your child without stifling their growth, this episode—and my new book—is for you. Let’s navigate this digital landscape together!

DOWNLOAD For Parents is available now—get your copy today at Amazon or any other major book retailer.

John Sternfels, LPC, NCC, CSAT, CMAT, CCPS, C-SASI
Owner/Clinical Director of NorthPoint Professional Counseling
Counselor and Author

Books Available:

• A Partner's Guide To Truth & Healing
• Behind The Smile: Healing From Abuse, Trauma, and Betrayal
• DOWNLOAD for Parents: Sex, Social Media, and Secrets
• SEX: Secular, Relativistic-Cultural or Biblical? Sex Across Perspectives

Send us a text

Behind The Smile by John Sternfels and Melissa Roberts is a real-life story of how one of John's clients, Melissa Roberts, overcame the horrors of being abused, traumatized, and sexually betrayed. As a result, Melissa experienced many psychological complexities, often behind a facade of happiness.

The book is designed to offer readers a deeper understanding of the disconnect between the external image people project and their internal realities.

Sternfels and Roberts guide readers on a journey to uncover the truth behind their own smiles, encouraging them to confront unresolved emotions and heal from past wounds. Together they provide practical tools and strategies for fostering authenticity in relationships, building trust, and achieving genuine emotional intimacy.

Behind The Smile is not just a book for those struggling with personal issues; it’s also a valuable resource for therapists, counselors, and anyone interested in understanding the deeper aspects of human behavior and emotional health. Sternfels and Roberts's empathetic approach and clear, accessible writing make this book a transformative guide for anyone seeking to live a more authentic and fulfilled life.

John Sternfels, LPC, NCC, CSAT, CMAT, CCPS, C-SASI
Owner/Clinical Director of NorthPoint Professional Counseling
Counselor and Author

Books Available:

• A Partner's Guide To Truth & Healing
• Behind The Smile: Healing From Abuse, Trauma, and Betrayal
• DOWNLOAD for Parents: Sex, Social Media, and Secrets
• SEX: Secular, Relativistic-Cultural or Biblical? Sex Across Perspectives

Send us a text

In this podcast, counselor and author, John Sternfels examines the complexities of gender identity and gender dysphoria in children and adolescents. John discusses from a Christian perspective, how to discuss this complex topic with children in a sensitive and informed manner.

Talking to children who struggle with gender identity and gender dysphoria challenges requires sensitivity, openness, and support. By approaching the conversation with empathy, respect, and a willingness to understand, parents can play a crucial role in supporting their children through their gender identity journey.

John Sternfels, LPC, NCC, CSAT, CMAT, CCPS, C-SASI
Owner/Clinical Director of NorthPoint Professional Counseling
Counselor and Author

Books Available:

• A Partner's Guide To Truth & Healing
• Behind The Smile: Healing From Abuse, Trauma, and Betrayal
• DOWNLOAD for Parents: Sex, Social Media, and Secrets
• SEX: Secular, Relativistic-Cultural or Biblical? Sex Across Perspectives

Send us a text

A Comprehensive Examination of Mental Health

Introduction
Counselor and author, John Sternfels, discusses the importance of mental health. Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how individuals think, feel, and act. It affects daily functioning, relationships, and physical health. Mental health is not merely the absence of mental illness but also involves the presence of positive characteristics such as resilience, self-esteem, and the ability to manage stress.

Historical Context
Historically, mental health has been misunderstood and stigmatized. Early civilizations often attributed mental disorders to supernatural forces, leading to inhumane treatments. The 19th and 20th centuries saw the emergence of more scientific approaches, with the development of psychiatry and psychology as distinct fields. The deinstitutionalization movement of the mid-20th century aimed to improve care by closing large psychiatric hospitals and emphasizing community-based services.

Current Understanding
Today, mental health is recognized as a critical aspect of overall health. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as a state of well-being where individuals realize their abilities, cope with normal life stresses, work productively, and contribute to their community.

Challenges and Barriers
Despite advances in understanding and treatment, several challenges remain:

• Stigma: Societal stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help and can negatively affect their self-esteem and recovery.
• Access to Care: There is a significant disparity in the availability of mental health services, particularly in low-income and rural areas.
• Integration with General Healthcare: Mental health care is often siloed from general health care, despite the interconnection between mental and physical health.

Future Directions
The future of mental health care lies in integrated, personalized approaches. Advances in neuroscience and genetics hold promise for more targeted treatments. Public health initiatives must focus on reducing stigma, improving access to care, and promoting mental health literacy. Additionally, technology, including telemedicine and digital mental health tools, can expand access to services and support.

Meditation for Mental Self-Care
Meditation is a powerful tool for mental self-care, promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and enhancing overall well-being. By incorporating meditation into daily routines, individuals can foster a greater sense of peace and mental clarity.

Meditation is a valuable practice for mental self-care, offering numerous benefits for emotional health, stress reduction, and overall well-being. By incorporating various meditation techniques into daily routines, individuals can cultivate a more mindful, peaceful, and resilient mindset.

Conclusion
Mental health is a vital component of overall well-being, influencing all aspects of life. Understanding its complexities and addressing the challenges associated with mental health disorders requires a comprehensive, compassionate approach.

John Sternfels, LPC, NCC, CSAT, CMAT, CCPS, C-SASI
Owner/Clinical Director of NorthPoint Professional Counseling
Counselor and Author

Books Available:

• A Partner's Guide To Truth & Healing
• Behind The Smile: Healing From Abuse, Trauma, and Betrayal
• DOWNLOAD for Parents: Sex, Social Media, and Secrets
• SEX: Secular, Relativistic-Cultural or Biblical? Sex Across Perspectives

Send us a text

In this episode, counselor and author John Sternfels will dive into the core of human connection, exploring the transformative power of understanding, compassion, and shared emotions through empathy.

Empathy, often hailed as the glue that binds us together, is more than just a buzzword. It's the force that bridges gaps, dismantles barriers, and fosters a sense of unity in an ever-evolving world.

Join me as I help navigate the nuances of empathy, discussing its impact on personal growth, mental well-being, and the broader social fabric. I will help shed light on how empathy serves as a catalyst for positive change.

From the workplace to our personal lives, empathy emerges as a guiding light, prompting us to see beyond ourselves and embrace the diverse narratives that make up our shared human experience. Together, let's explore practical ways to cultivate empathy in our daily lives and make a lasting difference in the lives of those around us.

John Sternfels, LPC, NCC, CSAT, CMAT, CCPS, C-SASI
Owner/Clinical Director of NorthPoint Professional Counseling
Counselor and Author

Books Available:

• A Partner's Guide To Truth & Healing
• Behind The Smile: Healing From Abuse, Trauma, and Betrayal
• DOWNLOAD for Parents: Sex, Social Media, and Secrets
• SEX: Secular, Relativistic-Cultural or Biblical? Sex Across Perspectives