Safe to Be: Gender, Spirit, and the Neuroscience of Acceptance with Dr. Gena St. David

In this rich conversation, Joni Lorraine is joined by Dr. Gena St. David—licensed professional counselor, marriage and family therapist, and Director of the Center for Counseling and Spirituality at Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, Texas. With deep expertise in trauma resilience, systemic therapy, and neuroscience, Dr. St. David brings a compassionate and research-informed perspective to the topic of LGBTQ+ spirituality.

Together, they explore the nature of spiritual formation, how we come to understand and honor gender identity, and the realities of gender dysphoria. Dr. St. David explains the neuroscience behind trust, acceptance, and vulnerability—and how these are crucial in the coming out process and in creating communities where LGBTQ+ individuals can truly thrive.

Drawing from her book The Brain & the Spirit and her ongoing research into nonviolence and spiritual healing, Dr. St. David offers a powerful vision for what becomes possible when we meet each other—and ourselves—with love and understanding.

🎧 Join us for a conversation that bridges science and soul, offering insight, healing, and hope for all who long to be fully seen.