About Justin Tilghman, PhD

I spent the next few years trying to find my footing again. I read more Scripture. I prayed harder. I did all the things I thought I was supposed to do — and in some ways, they helped. But deep down, I still felt stuck. Disconnected. I knew a lot about God, but I didn’t feel close to Him. My head was full of truth, but my heart... it just wasn’t catching up.

Things didn’t really begin to shift until I discovered a different kind of approach — one that brought emotional health, relational wisdom, and spiritual formation together. I started exploring things like attachment theory, emotional maturity, mindfulness, personality, and how all of that intersects with our spiritual lives.

That’s when something clicked. For the first time, I wasn’t just learning truth — I was experiencing healing. My relationship with God started to feel personal again. I began to see myself more clearly, with grace instead of shame. And I learned how to show up for others in a deeper, more compassionate way.

I still have rough days — we all do. But now, I have tools and awareness that help me move through those moments instead of getting stuck in them. I don’t feel held hostage by my thoughts or emotions anymore. I’m living from a deeper place of freedom, connection, and joy.

And that’s what I want to help others experience too.

That’s what led me to start Balanced Coaching — a Christ-centered practice that blends brain science, spiritual formation, and emotional growth. I work with individuals, leaders, and teams to help them build resilience, deepen self-awareness, and grow in their connection with God and others. It’s incredible to see what happens when people finally feel free to live as their whole, God-designed selves.

Outside of coaching, I serve as a pastor at my church, walking with small group leaders and helping people grow in faith through real, life-giving community. I also co-host the Encounter Grace Podcast with my friend Jason McKnight, where we explore practical, biblical insights for everyday life — things like relationships, leadership, and spiritual growth.

At home, I’m a husband and a dad — two roles that shape me more than anything else. I love slow evenings with my wife and boys, good conversation, and diving into whatever new idea I’m learning about (usually something in theology, psychology, or leadership — I’m kind of always reading).

At the heart of it, my passion is simple: I want to help people grow into the kind of life that brings peace, joy, and purpose. A life where you're not just pushing through... you're actually flourishing.

You're not broken. You're becoming. And you don't have to walk this road alone.

Thanks for taking a few minutes to hear my story. I’d love to connect and walk with you on your own journey toward healing, clarity, and wholehearted living.

Disclaimer: I am not a licensed clinical mental health counselor, social worker, therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist. While we may occasionally talk about your past and how it informs your present, the work we do together is ultimately forward-focused and geared toward helping you meet your personal or professional goals. I do not diagnose or treat mental illness.