NEWS PROVIDED BY
Higher Hopes Institute
April 28, 2026
DALLAS-FORT WORTH, Texas, April 28, 2026 /Standard Newswire/ — Higher Hopes Institute is honored to announce that Dr. Michelle Bengtson, PhD, a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist, international speaker, award-winning author, and podcast host, has joined its faculty team. Dr. Bengtson will serve as a leading educator within the Institute’s continuing education programs, equipping Christian counselors, church leaders, clergy, and faith-based educators across a wide range of ministry and care settings.
Higher Hopes Institute, a Biblically grounded training and certification organization, is committed to strengthening the quality, credibility, and accessibility of Christian counseling education. With a growing national and global reach through HigherHopesInstitute.com, the Institute provides continuing education and certification programs designed for both licensed professionals and those serving in non-clinical, ministry-based roles.
Dr. Bengtson’s addition marks a significant step forward in the Institute’s mission to bridge the gap between sound clinical understanding and Biblical truth.
With more than three decades of clinical experience, Dr. Bengtson brings a rare and powerful integration of neuroscience and faith. Her work helps individuals understand how the brain functions, why emotional struggles occur, and how lasting change is possible—even in the midst of deep pain. Her teaching uniquely translates complex neuropsychological concepts into accessible, practical tools while remaining deeply rooted in a Christ-centered worldview.
“Dr. Bengtson represents the very heart of what we are building at Higher Hopes Institute,” said Dr. Erin Kincaid, co-Dean of Higher Hopes Institute. “She brings clinical excellence, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment to Biblical truth. Our students and partners will not only gain knowledge, but true transformation through her teaching.”
Through her role at the Institute, Dr. Bengtson will contribute to continuing education courses designed to support those serving in churches, schools, hospitals, counseling practices, and ministry environments. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, trauma, depression, intrusive thoughts, stress, burnout, and complex neurological conditions such as PTSD, traumatic brain injury, dementia, and developmental disorders.
Known for her engaging and deeply encouraging communication style, Dr. Bengtson equips audiences with research-grounded tools that can be applied immediately. Her ability to create a safe and empowering learning environment allows participants to feel understood while gaining clarity and direction for both personal and professional growth.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Bengtson is the host of the long-running podcast Your Hope Filled Perspective and the author of multiple award-winning books, including Hope Prevails, recipient of the 2020 AWSA Book of the Year. Her most recognized works also include Breaking Anxiety’s Grip, Today is Going to be a Good Day, and her newest release, Sacred Scars, which continues her message that pain does not disqualify purpose.
Dr. Bengtson’s voice has reached audiences worldwide, and her integration of faith and science aligns seamlessly with Higher Hopes Institute’s foundational belief that truth in psychology often echoes truth already revealed in Scripture. Dr. Bengtson joins Dr. Erin Kincaid, Jenna Meister, LPC, Brandy Smith, LPC-S and Hope Harris, MS, MCBC on the faculty team of HHI.
Higher Hopes Institute invites pastors, counselors, ministry leaders, and Christian educators to explore upcoming courses and training opportunities featuring Dr. Bengtson and other faculty at www.HigherHopesInstitute.com.
About Higher Hopes Institute
Higher Hopes Institute is a Biblically based education and certification organization dedicated to equipping individuals to provide Christ-centered care in both clinical and ministry settings. Through continuing education, certification programs, and strategic partnerships, the Institute seeks to elevate the standard of Christian counseling and expand access to integrated mental health training worldwide.
Media Contact:
Higher Hopes Institute – Dr. Erin Kincaid – contact@HigherHopesInstitute.com
www.HigherHopesInstitute.com
Bio and photos/media sent upon request.
SOURCE Higher Hopes Institute