NorthPoint Counseling Perspective

Episode 24: Gaslighting

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2293255/open_sms] In this powerful episode, host John Sternfels, LPC, a national board-certified counselor and founder of NorthPoint Professional Counseling, sheds light on the destructive psychological tactic known as gaslighting. This subtle form of emotional abuse distorts a person’s reality, often leaving them feeling confused, powerless, and emotionally isolated. John breaks down the core dynamics of gaslighting—how it works, why it’s used, and where it commonly shows up in relationships, particularly in the context of sexual addiction and betrayal trauma. With clinical insight and real-life examples, he reveals how gaslighting erodes trust, reshapes truth, and manipulates the narrative to protect the abuser. This episode also provides a roadmap for healing: how to recognize the signs, rebuild your inner confidence, and reestablish emotional safety. Whether you're a partner, therapist, or survivor, John offers practical tools and compassionate wisdom to help you reclaim clarity and stand firm in truth. Join John Sternfels as he exposes the lies of gaslighting and empowers you to walk in truth, freedom, and healing. 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

Episode 23: Healthy Parenting: Preparing The Next Generation

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2293255/open_sms] What does it take to raise strong, grounded, and emotionally healthy kids in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world? In this powerful episode, John Sternfels gives us a sneak peek into his highly anticipated new book, Healthy Parenting: Preparing the Next Generation. With warmth, wisdom, and clinical insight, John unpacks what every parent needs to know to build a solid foundation for their children, one rooted in emotional resilience, spiritual depth, and relational connection. You’ll hear a real-life story, practical strategies, and timeless truths drawn from decades of counseling experience. From the importance of role modeling to the impact of early emotional experiences, John challenges parents to rethink what it means to lead their children with purpose, presence, and love. Whether you’re raising toddlers or guiding young adults, this episode will equip and encourage you to parent not just for today, but to prepare your child for a lifetime of thriving. Don't miss this conversation—it could reshape the way you parent. 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

Episode 22: Understand Your Attachment Style

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2293255/open_sms] In this episode of NorthPoint Counseling Perspective, John Sternfels explores the foundational topic of attachment styles—how our early childhood experiences with parents /caregivers shape the way we connect, trust, and navigate intimacy in adulthood. John unpacks the four main attachment styles—Secure, Anxious (Preoccupied), Avoidant (Dismissive), and Fearful-Avoidant (Disorganized)—offering his own, real-life example, psychological insight, and compassionate guidance to help listeners identify their own patterns. Whether you're struggling with relationship anxiety, emotional distance, or past trauma, this episode will help you: * Understand the roots of your attachment style * Recognize how it affects your current relationships * Discover practical steps toward healing and growth If you're ready to deepen your self-awareness and take the next step toward emotional security and connection, this episode is a must-listen. Need support on your journey? Visit www.northpoint-counseling.com [http://NorthPointCounseling.org] or call us at 248.773.8440 to connect with a therapist to learn more. Subscribe, share, and join us as we explore what it means to heal, grow, and connect. 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

Episode 21: Family Impact Meeting - Strengthening Connections, Building a Healthier Future

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2293255/open_sms] Are you seeking a structured approach to restore healing, truth, and unity within your home? Then don’t miss this episode of NorthPoint Counseling Perspective, where we dive into the Family Impact Meeting — a powerful, guided therapeutic approach to help families begin conversations around broken trust, addiction recovery, or betrayal trauma. Hosted by John Sternfels, National Board-Certified Counselor, author, and clinical director of NorthPoint Professional Counseling, this episode unpacks: * What a Family Impact Meeting is * When it’s most helpful in the recovery and healing process * How it gives voice to loved ones affected by destructive behaviors * And how it sets the stage for rebuilding connection and accountability Whether you're a therapist, a recovering individual, a betrayed partner, or a family member seeking answers — this conversation will give you practical tools and hope for restoring your family relationships. Listen now and take the next step toward healing together! 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

Episode 20: Truth and Trust - Why a Therapeutic Disclosure

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2293255/open_sms] Hosted by John Sternfels, National Board-certified counselor, author, and clinical director of NorthPoint Professional Counseling, this episode dives deep into one of the most essential—and often misunderstood—tools in healing from betrayal: Why a Therapeutic Disclosure. John brings nearly two decades of experience helping individuals and couples navigate the pain of sexual addiction, betrayal trauma, and broken trust. In this episode, he explores: * Why a Therapeutic Disclosure * Why Many Betraying Partners Become Hesitant To Comply * When it Should Take Place * How It Benefits Both the Disclosure and the Betrayed Partner * Why Structured Disclosures Foster Genuine Healing and Rebuild Trust  Whether you're the partner in pain, the one seeking to make amends, or a professional supporting others on this journey, this episode offers critical insights, practical steps, and compassionate guidance. 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