Higher Hopes
Online
Mental Health as Heaven Intended
Dr. Sean Blacksten
Pastor, PsyD, MDiv, Missionary
Email Dr. Blacksten at care@higherhopesonline.com
Sean counsels:
Individuals & Couples
Missionaries & Clergy
in English, Spanish & German
Sean helps with...
-
Depression
-
Anxiety
-
Anger Management
-
Chronic Stress
-
Addiction
-
Conflict Resolution
-
Boundaries
-
Relationship Issues
-
Communication Skills
-
Trauma/PTSD
-
Family Issues
-
Parenting
-
Clergy Leadership Issues
-
Missionary Experience Issues
-
Life or Minsitry Transitions
A little bit about Sean...
Sean has been happily married to Shelley since 1989 and has spent over 30 years in full-time ministry, serving both as a pastor and as an international missionary with the IMB. Alongside his wife, he has served God’s people across the globe, bringing a lifetime of ministry experience into his counseling work. He holds a Master of Divinity from SWBTS and a Doctorate in Psychology from California Southern University, blending deep Biblical conviction with a strong understanding of the human heart and mind.
His doctoral research focused on expatriate mental health and employment retention, exploring how missionaries and the organizations that send them can better support those living and serving in challenging environments. His leadership and pastoral care experience have shaped a counseling presence that is gentle, wise, and deeply anchored in Scripture.
Sean is the grateful father of two grown children who continue to inspire his ministry and calling. Outside of ministry and counseling, he enjoys traveling and is an enthusiastic pickleball player.
A message from Sean...
Welcome! I provide Biblically-based, clinically informed counseling that integrates faith, compassion, and professional expertise to help individuals, couples, and families find hope and healing. My approach draws from both Scripture and evidence-based practices to address emotional, relational, and spiritual challenges in a way that honors your beliefs and values. Whether you are navigating deep pain, seeking personal growth, or longing to strengthen your relationships, I offer a safe, supportive space to explore your story and pursue lasting change.
My areas of focus include pastoral and missionary care, depression, anxiety, burnout and chronic stress, addiction, and trauma/PTSD. I also work with clients facing life transitions, cultural adjustment, and spiritual struggles, as well as those seeking guidance in marriage, pre-marriage, and parenting teens or adult children. With experience walking alongside those in ministry and cross-cultural service, I understand the unique pressures that can accompany such callings. My goal is to help you move toward greater wholeness—emotionally, spiritually, and relationally—through a counseling process grounded in grace and truth.