In this episode, we speak with therapist Joy Brooks about spiritual bypassing—how well-meaning spiritual beliefs and practices can sometimes mask or avoid the difficult emotions and wounds we all carry. Drawing on psychology, contemplative traditions, and Joy’s own journey out of charismatic Christianity, the conversation uncovers why confronting pain honestly is essential for genuine growth.
Joy reflects on how communities and individuals alike can unintentionally use faith to silence, dismiss, or rush past suffering—and the emotional costs this often brings. She also explores how the Christian tradition holds resources for facing the “messiness” of being human, embracing vulnerability, and resisting the temptation to perform a polished, “all-good” spirituality.
Following the interview, Nomad hosts Tim Nash and Nick Thorley reflect on their own experiences with spiritual bypassing and the importance of creating safe spaces where questioning and emotional honesty are welcomed rather than shunned.
Interview starts at 14m 19s
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QUOTES
“All forms of bypassing are taking us away from being able to pay attention to and learn to cope with what’s happening in the here and now.”
“Our spiritual practices or beliefs can be both distraction and addiction.”
“If we don’t really know who we are as a person, it can be quite dangerous to simply think, well, we just have to lay down our lives completely.”
“Somebody might be really good at preaching and therefore let’s make them a leader, without paying any attention to the psychological development of that person.”
