Speaking & Workshops

Laura Joy Ramos

Bridging Faith and Mental Health in Your Community
Laura Joy Ramos brings a unique voice to conversations about mental health in faith communities. As someone who studied biblical theology under Dr. Sam Storms at Wheaton College and now manages bipolar disorder with both medication and faith, she offers hope to those caught between pews and psychiatrists.

18

Years in Education

4,000+

Students Served

11

Years Mental Health Advocacy

SIGNATURE TOPICS

“Bipolar Disorder Is Not a Sin: Reforming Church Response to Mental Illness”

Based on her forthcoming memoir endorsed by Dr. Sam Storms

Churches often treat mental illness as spiritual failure. This presentation challenges harmful theology while offering practical ways faith communities can become sanctuaries for those with mental health challenges.

Ideal for: Churches, pastoral conferences, seminary workshops

“From Shame to Sanctuary: A Personal Journey Through Faith and Mental Illness”

A vulnerable testimony with practical application

Laura Joy shares her journey from hiding bipolar disorder to finding God within it—not despite it. Includes her “biblical psychology” framework that honors both scripture and medical science.

Ideal for: Women’s events, church retreats, mental health awareness events

“Creating Mental Health Sanctuaries in Christian Education”

Practical strategies for educators in Christian contexts

With 18 years in education and 7 years managing bipolar disorder, Laura Joy equips Christian educators to recognize, support, and advocate for students with mental health challenges.

Ideal for: Christian schools, homeschool conferences, educator training

“When Prayer Isn’t Enough: The Grace of Medical Treatment”

A theological case for mental health treatment

Explore biblical grounds for embracing medical treatment as God’s provision, not lack of faith. Based on theological training and endorsed by Dr. Sam Storms.

Ideal for: Pastoral care training, counseling programs, Bible studies

WORKSHOP OFFERINGS

For Churches:

“Becoming a Mental Health Sanctuary” (Half-day workshop)

  • Recognizing mental illness vs. spiritual issues
  • Language that helps vs. harms
  • Practical support strategies
  • Resource development

For Educators:

“Mental Health in the Classroom” (Professional development)

  • Recognizing warning signs
  • De-escalation techniques
  • Working with parents
  • Self-care for educators

For Families:

“Loving Someone with Mental Illness” (90-minute session)

  • Understanding diagnosis
  • Balancing faith and treatment
  • Setting healthy boundaries
  • Finding support

SPEAKER BIO

Laura Joy Ramos studied biblical theology under Dr. Sam Storms at Wheaton College before completing her degrees at Belmont University (BA) and Wilkes University (MS). With 18 years of teaching experience and seven years navigating bipolar disorder as a Christian, she bridges communities that rarely speak the same language about mental health.

Her forthcoming memoir, Fearfully, Wonderfully, and Bipolar-ly Made: From Shame to Sanctuary, has been endorsed by Dr. Storms as essential reading for understanding that “bipolar disorder is not a sin” and that Christians with mental illness shouldn’t be treated “as if they suffered from some form of spiritual leprosy.”

Laura Joy is active in NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance), and her local church, where she’s developed workshops helping faith communities better support members with mental illness while maintaining theological integrity.

What Others Are Saying

“Laura Joy’s unique ability to bridge mental health, education, and faith creates conversations that truly matter. Her authentic storytelling doesn’t just inform—it transforms communities.”
— Rachel Lindsey, Conference Attendee

BOOKING INFORMATION

Laura Joy is available for:

  • Keynote presentations
  • Workshops and seminars
  • Retreat sessions
  • Podcast interviews
  • Panel discussions

Topics expertise:

  • Faith and mental health integration
  • Bipolar disorder education
  • Mental health in education
  • Church mental health ministry
  • Theological perspectives on suffering

Based in: Virginia
Willing to travel: Yes
Virtual options: Available

Presentation Formats

Keynote Presentations (45-60 minutes)

Inspiring, story-driven presentations that challenge audiences to see mental health, faith, and education through a new lens.

Workshop Sessions (90 minutes – half day)

Interactive, practical sessions with takeaway strategies participants can implement immediately in their schools, churches, or communities.

Panel Discussions

Collaborative conversations bringing multiple perspectives to complex topics around mental health stigma and advocacy.

Professional Development Training

Comprehensive training for educators on integrating mental health awareness and SEL strategies into daily practice.

Ready to Transform Your Event?

Let’s equip your community to become a sanctuary for those struggling with mental illness. Note: Laura Joy donates a portion of speaking fees to mental health advocacy organizations.

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