May 09, 2025 · 41 min

Grief isn't always about death. Sometimes, it's about the life you didn’t sign up for.

In this powerful episode of Faith Over Addiction, host Tanya Gioia is joined by Dr. Amanda McNeil—licensed pastoral counselor, theologian, and author—to unpack the complex layers of grief that accompany addiction and relational loss. Together, they explore the heartbreak of unmet expectations, shifting dynamics, and living losses that often go unspoken in Christian homes.

Dr. McNeil shares how grief, when left unprocessed, can leave us stuck—but with grace, empathy, and spiritual grounding, healing is possible. You’ll learn how to:

Recognize grief beyond bereavementUnderstand the difference between trauma and healingInvite God into the messy middle of your painSet internal boundaries and reclaim your thought lifeEmbrace hope as a non-negotiable for restoration

With biblical wisdom, psychological insight, and honest conversation, this episode offers both comfort and clarity for women navigating the pain of addiction in their relationships.

🔗 Get Dr. Amanda McNeil’s book, Overcoming the Overcast: Navigating the Storms of Grief with God, and download the first chapter free at https://www.amandacmcneil.com/overcoming-the-overcast

Free Gfit : Get this free list of Christian affirmations that spell out who you are in God – actual in God’s own words. Repeat these biblical affirmations and replace these truths with the lies currently in your head! - https://www.tanyagioia.com/affirmations

🌟 Ready to tackle real issues and find peace in your life? Book your free session here: 🌈

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Drop me a message at hello@tanyagioia.com with your thoughts and feedback – I’d love to hear how this episode helped you!

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Are you caught in the chaos of addiction, constantly cleaning up emotional, spiritual, and physical messes that aren't yours? Welcome to Faith Over Addiction, where faith meets real life. Hosted by Family Recovery Coach Tanya Gioia, this podcast is designed to offer Christian women hope, healing, and practical tools to navigate the challenges of loving someone with addiction.

Through biblical truths, heartfelt stories, and actionable guidance, you’ll learn how to set healthy boundaries, find peace in the mess, and reclaim your God-given identity. You don’t have to carry what was never meant to be yours. It’s time to shift from “this is happening to me” to “this is happening for me,” and let God transform the chaos into something that glorifies Him.

Every week, I’m here to encourage you, offer clarity, and remind you that as a daughter of the King, You Always Have Other Options (YAHOO). Together, we’ll embrace faith as the foundation, boundaries as the bridge to healing, and God’s truth as the ultimate guide to freedom, strength, and grace.

Blessings,

Tanya Gioia 🌸

🎵 Music Credit:

Track: Luz Solart

Artist: Luna Cantina

Album: Luz Solart

Released: 2024