Discipling Teens with Hidden Disabilities with Dr. Steve Grcevich & Dr. Brian Barrineau

What does faithful discipleship look like when a teen struggles with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, anxiety, or other hidden disabilities?

In this episode of the Key Ministry Podcast, Dr. Steve Grcevich is joined by Dr. Brian Barrineau, Pastor of Family Ministries at Fruit Cove Baptist Church, for a practical and deeply encouraging conversation about discipling teens with learning differences.

Hidden disabilities are often misunderstood. They aren’t always visible. They don’t always come with clear labels. And yet, they profoundly shape how teens experience church, school, relationships, and their own identity.

Together, Steve and Brian explore how churches and families can move beyond fear and into faithful, intentional inclusion.

This episode will help you think more clearly about:

• Why hidden disabilities require intentional discipleship pathways

• The overlap between neurodivergence and mental health struggles

• How Deuteronomy 6 applies to families raising neurodivergent teens

• What churches can do when volunteers feel intimidated or unprepared

• Why belonging matters more than perfection in ministry

• When pastoral care should involve professional mental health support

Dr. Barrineau brings a unique perspective as a former high school teacher, pastor, researcher, and parent of a child with learning differences. His insights bridge the classroom and the church — helping leaders and families navigate both environments with wisdom.

One of the most powerful reminders from this conversation:

“If that family feels seen, known, and loved, the rest can be figured out.”

Churches don’t have to get everything right to begin. But they do have to communicate welcome.

If you’re a church leader, youth pastor, volunteer, or parent seeking to disciple a teen with hidden disabilities, this episode offers both theological grounding and practical encouragement.

Resources Mentioned

• Deuteronomy 6

• Individual Spiritual Plans

• IEPs and 504 Plans

• Child Find early intervention services

• Theory of Mind research

About Our Guest

Dr. Brian Barrineau serves as Pastor of Family Ministries at Fruit Cove Baptist Church in St. Johns, Florida. He holds a doctorate in education and is passionate about equipping churches to disciple students with learning differences in ways that are both biblically faithful and developmentally wise.