Conversations about men’s mental, emotional and spiritual health were very present in this episode of "Let's Talk About It With The Turners" as licensed professional counselor and pastoral therapist Dr. Anthony Granberry spoke about healing, vulnerability and generational trauma.
Dr. Granberry, a Decatur-based psychotherapist with more than 30 years of counseling experience, was introduced as a clinician who integrates faith and psychology to support men navigating emotional challenges often left unaddressed. The discussion focused on why many men, particularly Black men, struggle to seek help and how unprocessed childhood experiences can manifest in adulthood.
Dr. Granberry explained that many therapists are drawn to the profession through personal reflection and unresolved questions rooted in family dynamics. He shared that his own early relationship with his father shaped his interest in counseling, offering insight into how emotional absence and unspoken expectations can leave lasting impressions on children.
According to Dr. Granberry, understanding a parent’s limitations later in life does not erase the emotional pain experienced in childhood. Healing, he emphasized, requires intentionally revisiting those early memories in safe, supportive environments. “The impact of back then is alive and well until we deal with it,” he said.
The Turners connected Dr. Granberry's insights to broader conversations around men’s health, referencing a prior segment involving a heart attack survivor and the physical toll of suppressed stress. Dr. Granberry noted that emotional pain often finds expression in the body when left unresolved, contributing to health complications and strained relationships.
A recurring theme throughout the interview was the stigma surrounding therapy, particularly within faith communities. Dr. Granberry addressed the long standing belief that prayer alone is sufficient to address emotional distress, acknowledging the value of faith while cautioning against minimizing psychological wounds.
“Prayer can also lead you to a therapist,” Dr. Granberry said.
Dr. Granberry also discussed masculinity and emotional expression, challenging the notion that men lack emotional depth. He argued that many men possess a full range of emotions but have been socially conditioned to display only a narrow portion, most often anger. He encouraged families, partners and communities to use empathy and influence rather than criticism when supporting men in their healing journeys.
The conversation also touched on fatherhood, with Dr. Granberry encouraging parents to ask children directly what they need emotionally. He stressed that intent does not always equal impact and urged adults to be mindful of language that children may internalize for years.
The discussion also touched on men’s physical health, including aging, hormonal changes and preventative care. Dr. Granberry highlighted the importance of establishing long-term relationships with physicians and viewing health holistically, sharing that emotional well-being often determines whether men seek medical care at all.
To listen to the full interview, click the link above.