Madison Magazine February - March 2020 | Page 4

Profile Workshop attendees in action. Local author, coach helps heal broken relationships B Story by Kate Underwood Photos submitted est-selling author Shannon Ethridge tions from Liberty University, and utilizes has recently settled in Richmond, the expertise and skills gained there every and continues to bring her mission of day in her writing, coaching, and speaking healing relationships wherever she goes. “My ministry. She has been featured on multiple goal is to help people of all ages overcome any major news media outlets, including The obstacle that hinders their relational satisfac- Today Show, The 700 Club, Moody Radio, and tion and fulfillment.” Women of Faith.  Ethridge is certainly no newcomer to the Ethridge notes that while sexuality is a key public eye, having been a writer and coach for aspect of loving marriages and relationships,  over two decades. She has authored 22 books problems can occur when people lean too far in the Christian/relationship space, including on one end of the spectrum. the renowned Every Woman’s Battle series “Sometimes our pendulum may swing too and Completely His series. In addition to far to the left, and we ‘act out’ in ways we her writing career, she provides coaching for never dreamed of,” she said. “In other sea- sons, our pendulum may swing too far to the individuals and married couples to help them right, and we ‘shut down’ in ways we never attain healthy relationships.  Shannon Ethridge fathomed.’”  Guiding people into stronger, more fulfill- ing relationships is the heart of Ethridge’s purpose and passion. By coaching individuals and couples, Ethridge aims to improve Often this involves work to uncover past shame and trauma all aspects of the relationship, including physical intimacy. so that the person can become free to enjoy the relationships “My goal is to help women and men find a healthy balance they’ve chosen.  between these two extremes, where they are interested and Ethridge holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling/Human Rela- motivated sex partners, but only with their spouse, not someone 4 Madison Magazine F E B R UA RY- M A R C H 2 02 0