Being Human

Have you ever felt safer letting someone else decide—not because you didn't care, but because choosing for yourself felt overwhelming or even dangerous? Dr. Greg explores the dependent defense pattern and why giving up agency can feel like survival—until healing restores the freedom to exist, choose, and love. Key Topics: Why dependency isn't just fear of being alone—but fear of not existing alone How proximity can start to feel like survival Why some people lose touch with what they want, like, or dream about How dependency can quietly shape marriages, families, and faith And how healing doesn't erase need—it restores freedom Learn More: Being Human episodes on narcissistic personality patterns: Ep. #261: Narcissism and the Terror of Being Ordinary Ep. #262: Spiritual Narcissism: Exposing the Sneaky Way We Use Religion as a Pattern of Protection Ep. #263: Holiness and Narcissism Ep. #264: IFS, JP2 and Narcissism Is Leadership of the Family a Man's Job? (Being Human, Ep. #201) Correcting Aquinas: JP2's Truth Bomb on Gender and Human Dignity (Being Human, Ep. #197) Being Human episodes on Parts Work:  Ep. #34: A New Theory! w/a Catholic Lens Ep. #35: Why Do I Feel Like I Have Conflicting Thoughts? w/ Dr. Peter Malinoski Ep. #49: Internal Family Systems & External Family Tensions  Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials:   Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

Dr. Greg wraps up the series on narcissism by going beneath behavior and willpower, drawing on JP2 and psychology to show how real healing happens at the subconscious level. Learn how narcissistic patterns can be unburdened and integrated with compassion—not erased or fought—so healing can actually take root. Key Topics: Why a narcissistic part is not a monster, but a protector How deep wounds get buried beneath conscious awareness and still drive behavior Why healing isn't about willpower or "trying harder" How narcissistic patterns can be unburdened and integrated, rather than erased Learn More: Being Human episodes on Narcissism: Ep. #263: Holiness and Narcissism: Undoing the Knots with Awareness, Self-Determination, Empathy and Our Lady Ep. #262: Spiritual Narcissism: Exposing the Sneaky Way We Use Religion as a Pattern of Protection Ep. #261: Narcissism and the Terror of Being Ordinary Related blog articles: The Problem with the Bishop Scandals Outlining Narcissistic Personality Disorder The Two Types of Narcissism Being Human episodes on Parts Work:  Ep. #34: A New Theory! w/a Catholic Lens Ep. #35: Why Do I Feel Like I Have Conflicting Thoughts? w/ Dr. Peter Malinoski Ep. #47: How to Turn Your Inner Worst Enemies into Your Inner Best Friends Person and Act by Karol Wojtyla (Pope Saint John Paul II) Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment   Follow Us on Socials:   Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

"Die to yourself." "Offer it up." What happens when these phrases get tangled with woundedness? In this episode, we explore spiritual narcissism—and the path back to freedom through awareness, empathy, self-determination, and Our Lady.   Key Topics: Why "good advice" can sometimes feel silencing rather than supportive How being told to "pray more" can replace real listening The hidden ways love can feel conditional in spiritual spaces How spiritual environments can quietly erode trust in your own intuition Learn More: Related blog articles: The Problem with the Bishop Scandals Outlining Narcissistic Personality Disorder The Two Types of Narcissism Being Human episodes on Narcissism: Ep. #262: Spiritual Narcissism: Exposing the Sneaky Way We Use Religion as a Pattern of Protection Ep. #261: Narcissism and the Terror of Being Ordinary Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials:   Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

When faith is used to silence, control, or end conversations, something has gone wrong. In this episode, Dr. Greg exposes spiritual narcissism—the hidden way woundedness disguises itself as holiness and quietly breaks relationships from the inside out.   Key Topics: Why spiritual maturity does not automatically include emotional maturity How faith can unconsciously be used to shut down dialogue Why boundaries can be an authentic act of mercy How real healing requires integration, not just more prayer or effort How spiritual language can become a shield against vulnerability rather than a path to communion Why grace perfects nature but does not bypass psychological woundedness Why marriage is not a chain of command but a mutual gift of self How authority language can become a warning sign instead of a virtue Why feeling confused, guilty, or silenced in a "faithful" relationship signals deeper misalignment Learn More: Related blog articles: The Problem with the Bishop Scandals Outlining Narcissistic Personality Disorder The Two Types of Narcissism Being Human episodes on Narcissism: Ep. #261: Narcissism and the Terror of Being Ordinary Ep. #68: "I'm Not Narcissistic, You're Narcissistic!" Ep. #67: An Antidote to Narcissism Ep. #21: A Look at Narcissist Personality Disorder Being Human Ep. #201: Is Leadership of the Family a Man's Job? Being Human episodes on Parts Work:  Ep. #49: Internal Family Systems & External Family Tensions  Ep. #47: How to Turn Your Inner Worst Enemies into Your Inner Best Friends Pastores Dabo Vobis (St. John Paul II) – On human formation as the foundation of spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral growth Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials:   Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

Everyone's talking about narcissism — but most of the conversation is missing what's really going on underneath. In this episode, Dr. Greg uncovers the blind spot driving narcissistic patterns, and why willpower never creates the change that only love can.   Key Topics: Why willpower alone never leads to real change  How blind spots protect us from unbearable shame  What "the terror of being ordinary" actually means  Why patience and sacrifice don't heal narcissism  And what does create the conditions for change Learn More: Being Human episodes on Narcissism: Ep. #21: A Look at Narcissist Personality Disorder Ep. #67: An Antidote to Narcissism Ep. #68: "I'm Not Narcissistic, You're Narcissistic!" Being Human episodes on Parts Work:  Ep. #34: A New Theory! w/a Catholic Lens Ep. #35: Why Do I Feel Like I Have Conflicting Thoughts? w/ Dr. Peter Malinoski Ep. #36: A Guided Exercise w/ Dr. Peter Malinoski Ep. #47: How to Turn Your Inner Worst Enemies into Your Inner Best Friends Ep. #49: Internal Family Systems & External Family Tensions  Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials:   Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

The tilma is so astonishing that it may have actually distracted us from the deeper story of Guadalupe. In this episode, Dr. Greg and Joseph González uncover the ancient prophecies and cultural preparation that reveal an even bigger plan at work.   Key Topics: Why the tilma may actually distract us from the real Guadalupe story. How God was preparing the Americas long before the missionaries arrived. The ancient "flower world" poetry that mirrors Juan Diego's tilma. What the four-petaled flower over Mary's womb really means. Why almost 10 million conversions suddenly made sense. How Guadalupe shows the right way to evangelize a culture. How archaeology is only now uncovering what God was already doing. What Guadalupe reveals about how God is working in your life, unseen. Learn More: Guadalupe and the Flower World Prophecy – Dive deeper into the book and additional work by Joseph Julian & Monique González Being Human Ep. #257 — "This Book Just Changed My Life" – Dr. Greg's first exploration of Guadalupe and the Flower World Prophecy. Joseph Julian González on YouTube – Watch more of his reflections, research, and musical explorations into the Flower World tradition. Misa Azteca (by Joseph González) – The musical work that first opened the door to Joseph's research into Guadalupe and the Flower World. Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials:   Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

The saints aren't waiting to be admired — they're actively trying to help us right now. In this episode, Dr. Greg sits down with Dr. Gerard McNicholas to unpack the psychology of devotion, what a living relationship with the saints can look like, and why the "messiness" that sometimes shows up during consecrations may actually be where God is doing His most personal work. Key Topics: Why Dr. Greg says most of us "block" the saints. How devotion becomes a real relationship instead of just a pious habit. When consecrations stir up drama—and why that can be a good sign. The psychology behind spiritual "trends" and jumping into devotions too fast. How scrupulosity and the "tyranny of the shoulds" hijack your prayer life. Why St. Joseph and Our Lady want to be part of your daily life. A simple four-step way to ride out anxiety and spiritual desolation. How friendship and Ignatian wisdom keep you from panicking in hard seasons. Why letting the saints "do their job" can change how you suffer. Learn More: Being Human Ep. #56: Writing Your Story with God with Dr. Gerard McNicholas "When Coping Mechanisms Aren't Enough" – Dr. Gerard McNicholas' interview on The Catholic Sinner Show Catholic Mindfulness Virtual Retreat – An 8-week journey into peace, trust, and deeper relationship with God The Surrender Novena by Fr. Dolindo Ruotolo – A devotion rooted in surrendering control and trusting Jesus more fully. Hope and Help for Your Nerves — Dr. Claire Weekes' classic guide on anxiety, panic, and nervous suffering Summit of Integration – Be the first to hear about event updates and special offers Consecration to Jesus through Joseph by Dr. Greg Bottaro and Jen Settle – A deep dive into devotion, psychology, and relationship through the Holy Family Consecration to St. Joseph – Fr. Donald Calloway's guide to rediscovering the fatherhood and mission of Joseph Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

Dr. Greg hits record on a Christmas group call with the CatholicPsych Leadership Council, and things immediately go off-script—in the best way. It's a chaotic, joyful, surprisingly deep year-in-review with candid moments, real humanity, and honest conversation about vocation, formation, and the Holy Spirit, plus a few teasers for 2026. Key Topics: The unseen personal work behind CatholicPsych's growth this past year Why real formation often feels disorienting before it feels hopeful Why integration of faith and psychology can't be fully explained—only experienced What the Summit revealed that no amount of planning could have predicted What's emerging next for CatholicPsych as it moves beyond a single voice or brand Hints about what 2026 will hold (including JP2, pilgrimage, and deeper community) Learn More: Summit of Integration 2026 – Be the first to hear updates on CatholicPsych's annual gathering focused on integration, formation, and community.  Further reading: The Art of Existential Counseling by Fr. Adrian Van Kaam   The Flight from Woman by Karl Stern  Pilgrimage to Poland (in the footsteps of St. John Paul II) – Interested in joining? Sign up to receive updates. Previous episode on Our Lady of Guadalupe: Ep. #257: This Book Just Changed My Life: Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Flower World Prophecy Previous episode on St. Thomas Aquinas and women: Ep. #250: Correcting Luther…and Aquinas? Calling Out Disintegration in the Church Dating Back to the Reformation Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

Dr. Greg explores a stunning new perspective on Our Lady of Guadalupe—the kind that overturns what you thought you knew. This episode dives into the wild, tender, deeply human layers of indigenous prophecy and shows how God works through the messy, unexpected places in every culture and every heart.   Key Topics: Why Dr. Greg believes most of us actually don't know the real story of Our Lady of Guadalupe The jaw-dropping details in Juan Diego's original account that reframe the entire miracle How nearly 10 million conversions in a decade suddenly make sense in a new light The surprising reason early missionaries struggled with evangelization—and what finally broke everything open Why the Guadalupe story reveals a deeper truth about evangelizing the people we love today The unexpected connection between the incarnation, tribal cultures, and the way God enters every human story Learn More: Guadalupe and the Flower World Prophecy – Dive deeper into the book and additional work by Joseph Julian & Monique González Joseph Julian González on YouTube – Watch more of his reflections, research, and musical explorations into the Flower World tradition. Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

In this episode, Dr. Greg and Fr. Colin Lomnitzer dive into the real St. Joseph—the man who quietly shaped Jesus' courage, work, identity, and tenderness far more than most people realize. For anyone wrestling with father wounds, questions about masculinity, or mission, this conversation offers a powerful and healing perspective.   Key Topics: The surprising ways Joseph reverses generations of wounded fatherhood stretching from Adam to Abraham The invitation to let Joseph father you where your own story carries hurt, fear, or mistrust Why Jesus needed a real mother and a real father—and what that means for your own healing The hidden "reparenting" offered through baptism and why Mary and Joseph matter for your emotional life The overlooked link between Joseph's example and how Jesus treated women in the Gospels Why the Church may be recovering a deeper understanding of Joseph right when the world needs fathers most Learn More: Connect with Fr. Colin Lomnitzer — Discover more about Fr. Colin's ministry accompanying newly-ordained priests. From the Desk of Fr. Lomnitzer (Substack) – Reflections, notes, and insights from life as a Catholic priest. Guardian of the Redeemer – St. John Paul II's apostolic exhortation on the person and mission of St. Joseph "Double Trinity" Painting – The artwork featured on Fr. Colin's ordination card  Consecration to Jesus through St. Joseph – A 44-day deep dive into the life and meaning of St. Joseph and Our Lady as they relate to our integrated human journey growing closer in union with Jesus Christ. Related episodes on fatherhood and masculinity: Ep. 163: Leading with Weakness: Authenticity in Fatherhood Ep. 248: The Hard Part about Being Dads and How to Do It Well Ep. 31: What Everyone Gets Wrong about St. Joseph  Understanding "Development of Doctrine" (Referenced in this Episode) – Learn more in Being Human Episode 250 Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment   Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn  

Kate LeFaivre shares the night everything changed—going to bed a wife and waking up a widow with eight kids, no warning, and a faith that had to carry her through shock. Dr. Greg and Kate explore what happens when the spiritual life meets real loss, and how grace shows up in places we never expect.   Key Topics: The night Kate's husband died suddenly and the shock that reshaped her family forever How she navigated telling eight children their father was gone—and the hidden moments she only learned about years later The grief "checklist" she followed for a year…and why she still felt worse The Holy Week moment when Kate heard God speak directly into her despair The long, unexpected journey of becoming "a whole person" again after the death of a spouse How community support (and true, non-taking friendship) carried her through the darkest days What it was really like to consider dating again as a widowed mother of eight The birth of Mosaic Mentorship and why Kate now helps others rebuild beauty from broken pieces Learn More: Connect with Kate LeFaivre — Learn more about Mosaic Mentorship and Kate's work accompanying those carrying heavy grief CanaVox — A resource for understanding and strengthening marriage through research-based reading groups Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

The culture tells us to eliminate "toxic people." Jesus tells us to love our enemies. So what does real Christian charity look like when a relationship is painful, chaotic, or constantly draining? In this week's episode, Dr. Greg tackles one of the most common—and misunderstood—questions Catholics wrestle with: When is it time to set boundaries, and when is it time to stay and suffer with love? Key Topics: Why the issue is often the dynamic—not the person How to love others without losing yourself Why authentic self-care is an act of charity, not selfishness What the Cross reveals about healthy, sacrificial love How limits, space, and boundaries can actually protect love — not weaken it How to tell the difference between loving someone well and enabling unhealthy behavior What interior freedom looks like in messy or emotionally charged relationships How to know when your "yes" is coming from virtue… and when it's coming from fear, guilt, or pressure Learn More: Integrated Life Membership – Looking for steady formation and Christ-centered support? The Integrated Life community offers pathways, tools, and resources to help you live an ordered, peaceful, integrated Catholic life. Related episodes on toxic relationships: Ep. 253: You've Changed, Your Family Hasn't, Now What? Ep. 216: Breaking the Cycle of Pain: How to Heal from Childhood Wounds Ep. 215: When Are Parents Toxic? Navigating Toxic Family Relationships Ep. 142: How to Start Healing an Unhealthy Relationship Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

This week, Dr. Greg sits down with Adrian and Shaelyn Misiak to talk about the real-life tension of growing and healing while your family stays the same. Together they unpack how true boundaries flow from inner peace—not control—and how to stay grounded in mercy when old patterns resurface around the holidays.   Key Topics: Why trying to control your family's behavior only increases anxiety—and what to do instead. Why "outgrowing your family" doesn't mean you've done anything wrong—and what it actually reveals about your healing. How to stay peaceful when one holiday comment sends you straight back into your old role. The surprising truth: boundaries aren't the solution… they're the result of inner peace. How to remain connected to your family without betraying the growth God is doing in you. How mercy—not distance—creates the safest emotional space when old wounds resurface. What to expect when you're the "different one" in the family…and how to carry that role with peace. Learn More: Living the Third Way Podcast with Adrian & Shaelyn Misiak – Torn between protecting your heart and staying close to the people you love? There's another way — and it starts here. "Living the Third Way" introduces you to a path of healing family dysfunction by restoring order, finding freedom, and discovering joy right in the middle of the messy, beautiful work of family life. Available on Amazon Music, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and the Podcast App. Want to connect with Adrian and Shaelyn? Visit their website and follow them on Instagram (@adrianandshae). Mercy Audio Exercise (Catholic Mindfulness) – A practice Adrian credits with shifting him toward greater peace, compassion, and freedom. Free download. Past episodes exploring masculinity and femininity: Ep. #200: Leaked Audio from a Groundbreaking Franciscan University Conference Keynote Ep. #197: Correcting Aquinas: JP2's Truth Bomb on Gender and Human Dignity Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

Dr. Greg and Fr. Sam Kachuba hit record while walking the streets of Rome, dodging mopeds, eating gelato, and talking Pope St. Leo the Great, AI, and what it really means to be human. What does a 5th-century pope who faced Attila the Hun have to teach us about preserving culture, confronting modern threats, and embracing our humanity in the digital age?   Key Topics: Walking the streets of Rome and recording a podcast mid-pilgrimage—interruptions and all How to make a pilgrimage transform your life—not just leave you with photos and memories What happens when we try to "transcend" being human instead of integrating it The rise of AI therapy, and what it reveals about the failures of modern psychology Why relationship—not efficiency—is the core of healing and growth Why protecting culture is part of protecting the dignity of the human person How ancient heresies about Christ's humanity still influence modern spiritual confusion   Learn More: Integration Pilgrimages – A new model of pilgrimage that integrates mentorship, reflection, and ongoing formation The Tangent – Podcast by Fr. Sam Kachuba and Matt Sperrazza on Catholicism and culture Connect with Fr. Sam Kachuba – Learn more about Fr. Sam's work to accompany priests and religious Rerum Novarum – Pope Leo XIII's encyclical on capital and labor Humanae Vitae – Pope St. Paul VI's encyclical on the regulation of birth Address of Pope Leo XIV to Digital Missionaries (July 29, 2025) – A call to evangelize the digital continent with wisdom, humility, and human connection Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Ethics, and Corporate Governance (June 19‑20, 2025) – Exploring the Church's role in guiding the future of artificial intelligence Previous episodes with Fr. Sam Kachuba: Ep. 175 – Rethinking Formation: Preparing Priests for the Future Ep. 165 – Understanding the Past to Navigate the Present Ep. 125 – Following the Holy Spirit, Theology of the Body, CatholicPsych…and Other Tangents Previous episodes on artificial intelligence: Ep. 238 – The False Promise of AI and Psychedelics: A Catholic Response to Modern Healing Ep. 222 – Three Places AI Can Never Go Ep. 221 – Is AI Really More Effective Than Your Therapist?   Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

Dr. Greg is joined by Certified CatholicPsych Mentor Jack Beers for a deep and honest conversation about the Church's invitation to mourn well—especially during the month of November. What begins as a discussion on liturgical rhythms becomes a surprising and moving reflection on death, grief, legacy, and the radical hope of sainthood. Together, they explore how embracing the reality of death—rather than avoiding it—can actually lead to greater peace, healing, and flourishing.   Key Topics: How meditating on your own death can bring clarity, peace, and purpose How popular culture distorts death—and what we lose when we avoid it Why the Church dedicates the month of November to the dead, and why it matters for your spiritual life The difference between ruminating on death and reflecting on it with intention Why Catholics are called to live in the tension of grief and resurrection How mourning connects us to legacy, eternity, and the call to become saints A practical invitation to pause, reflect, and realign at the end of the liturgical year What Jesus' response to Lazarus reveals about mourning with hope Learn More: Related episodes on Spiritual Warfare: Ep. 241: Big God LIttle Devil: Rethinking Spiritual Soundbites with Dr. Sean Tobin Ep. 137: Demonic Real Talk Related episodes on Halloween: Ep. 150: Can Catholics Celebrate Halloween? Ep. 45: Halloween, Haiti, and Spiritual Warfare Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

Some Catholics today are repeating Martin Luther's biggest mistake—and they don't even realize it. In this explosive 250th episode, Dr. Greg calls out the disintegration happening in the Church today, names names (including Aquinas), and offers a bold path forward through true integration and unity with Holy Mother Church.   Key Topics: Why disintegration is the real threat inside the Church today. The subtle ways Catholics today are repeating Luther's biggest mistake. The shocking quote from Aquinas that no one wants to talk about. Why clinging to outdated theology isn't faithfulness—it's fear. What "Reformation spirit" looks like in modern Catholic camps. How a misreading of masculinity and femininity has wounded the Church—and the world. Learn More: Questions or feedback? We'd love to hear from you! Email Dr. Greg at drgreg@catholicpsych.com. Summa Theologica by St. Thomas Aquinas – Especially Question 92: The Production of Woman The Catholic Genius of Integrated Masculinity and Femininity – A treatise on gender complementarity by Dr. Greg Let Christmas Correct Aquinas – A blog reflection on how the Incarnation reframes our understanding of Aquinas's view on women. Theology of the Body for Beginners by Christopher West – A clear, accessible introduction to John Paul II's groundbreaking teaching on love, sexuality, and the human person. Ecumenism without Compromise – Talks and writings on ecumenism by Dr. Peter Kreeft Related podcast episodes: Ep. 197 – Correcting Aquinas: JP2's Truth Bomb on Gender and Human Dignity Ep. 200 - Leaked Audio from a Groundbreaking Franciscan University Conference Keynote Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

You might know St. John Paul II for Theology of the Body—but that's just scratching the surface. In this episode, Dr. Greg shares why JP2's deeper philosophy holds the key to understanding the human person today—especially in a world of AI therapy, psychedelics, and emotional confusion. Key Topics: Why relying solely on Aquinas isn't enough for addressing the psychological and spiritual needs of today The philosophical genius of St. John Paul II—and why he's more than just the "Theology of the Body pope" The critical difference between being a therapist who's Catholic and doing authentically Catholic therapy How personalism bridges timeless Church teaching with the complexities of modern life Why understanding subjective experience is essential for Catholic therapists, clergy, and educators How personalism offers a Catholic answer to postmodern relativism without losing objective truth Learn More: Theology of the Body for Beginners by Christopher West – A clear, accessible introduction to John Paul II's groundbreaking teaching on love, sexuality, and the human person. Love and Responsibility by Karol Wojtyla (Pope John Paul II) – A philosophical deep dive into human dignity, attraction, and the true meaning of love. Related podcast episodes: Ep. 180 – The Psychology of JP2: A Bold Proposal Ep. 183 – The Lead Domino Effect: Transformation Begins with a Blueprint Ep. 197 – Correcting Aquinas: JP2's Truth Bomb on Gender and Human Dignity Ep. 218 – My Conversation with a Secular Therapist: Unveiling the Blueprint of the Human Person Ep. 221 – Is AI Really More Effective Than Your Therapist? Ep. 238 – The False Promise of AI and Psychedelics Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

Life as a parent is anything but simple. In this vulnerable episode, Dr. Greg and Fr. Dave Pivonka talk about the complexity of fatherhood, the wounds we carry, and how our vocation starts to make more sense when we begin to see God as Father—and dare to embrace our own weakness. Key Topics: Dr. Greg's raw reflection on feeling helpless as a dad—and what happened when he couldn't hold it all together The words every child longs to hear—and how one moment with his dad changed Fr. Dave's life What Fr. Dave learned at his father's deathbed—and why his family started clapping The surprising power of helplessness—and why it's safe to admit you don't have it all figured out Why obedience isn't restrictive—but actually the key to peace for parents How wounds from divorce, absence, or imperfect fathers still shape us today Why God's Fatherhood isn't just a metaphor—it's the foundation of healing Learn More: "My father's Father" – A Video Series by Fr. Dave Pivonka: A moving exploration of how our human experience of fatherhood affects our view of God the Father—told through Fr. Dave's personal story. Fr. Dave Pivonka on YouTube: Explore Fr. Dave's videos and powerful reflections on faith, fatherhood, and the spiritual life. "Overcoming Anxiety and Depression" – In Focus Series: Fr. Dave sits down with Dr. Greg Bottaro for a powerful series on the spiritual and psychological roots of anxiety and depression—and what real healing looks like. Redemptoris Custos by Pope John Paul II: Read the apostolic exhortation On the Person and Mission of Saint Joseph in the Life of Christ and of the Church. Catherine Pakaluk: Learn more about economist and Catholic author Dr. Catherine Pakaluk. Franciscan University of Steubenville: Discover more about the university where Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR, serves as president. Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

Scrupulosity isn't just "Catholic guilt gone too far"—it's a deeply painful form of OCD that can hijack your relationship with God. In this episode, Dr. Greg sits down with Stephanie Muncy, CatholicPsych's in-house expert (and someone who's lived it), to unpack what scrupulosity really is, how it distorts the spiritual life, and why the path to healing might look very different than you think. Key Topics: How scrupulosity is actually a debilitating form of OCD The scariest part of scrupulosity? It feels like it's about God—but it's really not Why obsessively going to confession or seeking reassurance only makes things worse The true root of scrupulosity isn't spiritual failure—it's unhealed anxiety How the need to "get it right" spiritually often masks a deeper wound Why you can't "logic your way out" of OCD What healing actually looks like—and why it's not about caring less Why even well-meaning spiritual advice can sometimes make things worse The most powerful thing you can offer someone suffering from scrupulosity Learn More: Blog articles by Stephanie Muncy: How to Settle Anxiety in the Heart and Mind of Someone with OCD The Love that Sets Us Free: A Compassionate Path through OCD Previously on the Being Human Podcast: Ep. #22: A Look at Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Scrupulosity Catholic Mindfulness Virtual Retreat: An 8-week course that brings freedom from anxiety and depression by showing you how to live as if you really believe in a God who loves you. The Mindful Catholic by Dr. Greg Bottaro: A practical guide to finding peace in the present moment through Catholic mindfulness. CatholicPsych Model of Applied Personalism (CPMAP): Catholic accompaniment training that truly integrates faith and science. Learn more about Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Parts Work: Ep. #160: Healing through Parts Work Ep. #35: Why Do I Feel Like I Have Conflicting Parts? Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn

oes following God mean life will be free from suffering? In this deeply moving episode, Dr. Greg reconnects with his longtime friend Stefanie Madden, who shares the heartbreaking story of losing her daughter to a rare neurological disorder. It's an honest conversation about grief, faith, and the truth that God doesn't promise to take away suffering—but He does promise to be with us in the midst of it. Key Topics: Stefanie's heartbreaking story of losing a child to a rare neurological condition Why the idea that "good Christians don't suffer" is not only false—but harmful How grief and faith can coexist without canceling each other out How Stefanie learned to carry her pain with God, not apart from Him What does it really mean to say God is with us in suffering? Why Stefanie says she now feels free for the first time in years What a grieving mom wishes she'd done differently Learn More: Baby Brian: A Pilgrim of Hope – Discover the full story of this incorrupt infant, view photos, and sign up for updates as his journey continues to unfold. Previously on Being Human:  Ep. 79: The Weight of Grief with Bri Edwards  A Thousand Pounds – An award-winning book offering strength and hope for parents carrying the unimaginable weight of grief. Lach's Legacy – Bri Edwards' nonprofit ministry serving families who have experienced the loss of a child. Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment   Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn