Episode 220: Larinda Horton Interview - That Time Our Counselor Counseled Us Live (Yes, Really)

2025-10-27

Ever felt like ministry life is equal parts beautiful and exhausting? We get it. That’s why we brought in our counselor (and dear friend), Larinda Horton — a pastor’s kid, pastor’s wife, and licensed professional counselor with a heart for Jesus and for those serving in ministry.In this episode, Larinda gets real about the struggles pastors’ wives face: loneliness, unrealistic expectations, boundary-setting, the pressure on marriage, and the desperate need for true friendships. She doesn’t just talk about it — she gives practical wisdom, points us to the hope we have in Chr...

Ever felt like ministry life is equal parts beautiful and exhausting?

We get it. That’s why we brought in our counselor (and dear friend), Larinda Horton — a pastor’s kid, pastor’s wife, and licensed professional counselor with a heart for Jesus and for those serving in ministry.

In this episode, Larinda gets real about the struggles pastors’ wives face: loneliness, unrealistic expectations, boundary-setting, the pressure on marriage, and the desperate need for true friendships. She doesn’t just talk about it — she gives practical wisdom, points us to the hope we have in Christ, and even counsels us a little live on the mic (yes, you’ll want to hear that part).

If you’ve ever wondered whether counseling is for you, how to protect your marriage from ministry burnout, or why self-care isn’t selfish — this conversation will encourage your heart.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

Why growing up in ministry shapes the way we view church life.
The reality of loneliness in leadership (and how to find safe friendships).
How boundaries protect your mental health and marriage.
Why counseling is a strength, not a weakness, for pastors and their spouses.
Navigating expectations from others — and what to do when they become too heavy.
The importance of self-care (without guilt).
What to do when you’re dealing with difficult or even narcissistic personalities in ministry.

Connect with Larinda:

https://www.fortheonecounseling.com/

https://debrafileta.com/larinda

Get all the info about our next pastors’ wives retreat and apply here:

https://www.pastorswivestellall.com/attendaretreat

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⁠https://pastorswivestellall.com/book⁠⁠

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