Faithfully Healed

Latisha Sternod, MS, LMHC

Faithfully Healed is a sacred, trauma-informed space created especially for Catholic Christian women navigating anxiety, burnout, grief, and emotional disconnection. Hosted by Latisha Sternod, MS, LMHC—licensed trauma therapist and founder + CEO of The Wonderful Counselor™—this podcast blends somatic healing, clinical wisdom, and unwavering faith. Each week, you’ll find honest conversations, spiritual grounding, and practical tools to help you heal emotionally—without abandoning your faith. Rooted deeply in the Catholic tradition and open to the movement of the Holy Spirit, Faithfully Healed honors the wisdom of the feminine as revealed through Scripture, the saints, and the sacred design of the body. Whether you’re longing for deeper peace, nervous system support, or a more embodied walk with God—this is a place to feel seen, anchored, and faithfully healed.

  1. 17 MAR

    The Hidden Power of Almsgiving: Becoming a Gift to Others

    In this reflective Lenten episode of Faithfully Healed, Latisha Sternod turns our attention to one of the most transformative spiritual practices in the Christian tradition: almsgiving. Through scripture, contemplation, and practical spiritual insight, Latisha explores how true spiritual growth requires us to move beyond self-focus and become a gift to others. Drawing from Matthew 6 and the practice of Lectio Divina, she guides listeners through a reflective meditation on Christ’s teaching about giving in secret—where love is offered without recognition or reward. In a culture that often encourages self-promotion and immediate gratification, this episode offers a countercultural invitation: to give quietly, love generously, and serve without needing to be seen. As we prepare our hearts during Lent, almsgiving becomes not just an act of charity—but a pathway toward deeper humility, community, and transformation. Through prayerful reflection and gentle guidance, Latisha reminds us that when we shift our focus outward and act with sincere love, we begin to embody the hands and feet of Christ in the world. In this episode, we talk about: What almsgiving truly means in the Christian tradition Why generosity is essential for spiritual growth How self-focus can subtly pull us off course Applying Lectio Divina to reflect on scripture Matthew 6 and Jesus’ teaching on giving in secret The difference between generosity and recognition-seeking How serving others helps us become more spiritually mature The importance of examining our motives for giving Moving from self-centeredness to outward love Becoming the hands and feet of Christ through action Anchor Quote: “When we give quietly and without recognition, we become a true gift to others.” – Latisha Sternod Reflection: What if generosity isn’t just about what we give—but why we give it? What if the quiet acts of love no one sees are the ones that transform us the most? This Lent, where might God be inviting you to give freely, serve humbly, and love without needing recognition? Resources & Mentions: Spiritual Practices Referenced: Lectio Divina (prayerful scripture meditation) Reflective silence and contemplation Lenten self-examination and renewal Practices Discussed: Giving without seeking praise or recognition Reflecting on personal motives for generosity Practicing hidden acts of service Shifting focus from self to others Becoming a vessel of love in daily life Key Themes: Almsgiving as spiritual transformation Selflessness and humility Generosity as love in action Community and interconnectedness Becoming the hands and feet of Christ Scripture References: Matthew 6:1–4 – “Do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” The call to give quietly and sincerely without seeking praise Connect with Us: 🌿 Website: thewonderfulcounselor.org 📖 Instagram: @the_wonderful_counselor 🕊 Facebook: The Wonderful Counselor If this episode encouraged you to grow in generosity and humility this Lenten season, would you leave a review? It helps more women discover this sacred space for Christ-centered healing and transformation.

    10 min
  2. 3 MAR

    Why Pray in 2026? Rediscovering the Power of Silence

    In this reflective Lenten episode of Faithfully Healed, Latisha Sternod explores a question many quietly ask: Why would I pray in 2026? Isn’t prayer outdated? With clarity, theological depth, and psychological insight, Latisha reframes prayer not as an antiquated ritual, but as a transformative interior practice, one that aligns both spiritual tradition and modern research. Drawing from Psalm 51, Carmelite spirituality, contemplative silence, and even secular mindfulness studies, she reveals how prayer reshapes the heart, calms the body, and restores the mind. This episode is an invitation to rediscover silence, not as emptiness, but as encounter. Whether you're new to prayer or returning after a long time away, this conversation offers practical encouragement to begin with just five minutes a day and allow God’s grace to do the rest. In this episode, we talk about: Why prayer is still relevant in 2026 The connection between counseling, support, and turning to God Psalm 51 and the desire for a clean, renewed heart Vocal prayer vs. contemplative silence Carmelite spirituality and the richness of Christian meditation How modern mindfulness research supports ancient prayer practices The physical and emotional effects of silence and stillness Prayer as reorienting toward love when we’ve “missed the mark” Grace as a gift—not something we earn Starting small: five minutes of intentional stillness Anchor Quote: “Create in me a clean heart.” – Psalm 51 Reflection: What if prayer isn’t outdated—but underused? What if the peace you’re seeking isn’t found in doing more—but in being still? This Lent, where might God be inviting you to pause, endure the silence, and rediscover that you are made from love? Resources & Mentions: Spiritual Traditions Referenced: Carmelite contemplative prayer Lectio Divina (scripture meditation) Psalm 51 renewal prayer Practices Discussed: Five minutes of silent prayer daily Focusing on something loving and good Persevering through racing thoughts and discomfort Reorienting toward love when “off course” Receiving grace through openness Key Themes: Prayer as interior transformation Silence as strength Grace as gift Staying aligned with love Endurance in spiritual practice Scripture References: Psalm 51 – “Create in me a clean heart.” The call to return to love when we’ve “missed the mark” (understanding sin as being off course) Connect with Us: 🌿 Website: thewonderfulcounselor.org 📖 Instagram: @the_wonderful_counselor 🕊 Facebook: The Wonderful Counselor If this episode encouraged you to begin, or begin again, your prayer life, would you leave a review? It helps more women discover this sacred space for Christ-centered healing and transformation.

    6 min
  3. 17 FEB

    From Burden to Beloved

    In this powerful Lenten-focused episode of Faithfully Healed, Latisha Sternod and Jen Clark invite listeners into a sacred interior journey, from feeling like a burden to embracing the truth of being beloved. As Ash Wednesday approaches, they unpack the deeper meaning of Lent beyond giving up chocolate or checking religious boxes. Through thoughtful dialogue, practical examples, and spiritual insight, they explore prayer, fasting, and almsgiving as transformative tools for interior renewal. This episode reframes Lent as an intentional season of metanoia, a change of mind and heart, where we confront distraction, soften hardened places, and allow Christ to shine more fully through us. With warmth and clarity, Jen and Latisha explain how fasting isn’t just about food, prayer isn’t just reciting words, and almsgiving isn’t just donating money. Instead, Lent becomes a deeply personal invitation to spiritual growth, humility, and love, preparing us to receive Easter not just as a date on the calendar, but as a resurrection within. In this episode, we talk about: What Lent really means, and why it matters The purpose of Ash Wednesday and receiving ashes Repentance as metanoia: changing the way we think Moving from negative self-beliefs to beloved identity How prayer softens the heart in difficult relationships Almsgiving as hidden acts of love and service Fasting as sacrifice—not self-improvement Fasting from devices, distractions, or harsh words Why silence is essential for hearing God’s voice How intentional interior work prepares us for Easter Anchor Quote: “You are not burdened. You are beloved.” – Latisha Sternod Reflection: What if Lent isn’t about losing something, but becoming someone? What if repentance isn’t shame, but renewal? This season, where might God be inviting you to soften, surrender, and step into the truth that you are deeply loved? Resources & Mentions: Books: A New Day, A New Start: Seek Your Sunshine by Jen Clark The Wonderful Counselor by Latisha Sternod Lenten Practices Discussed: Prayer: Honest, humble conversation with God Almsgiving: Intentional, hidden acts of service Fasting: Sacrifice that creates space for Christ Silence: Reducing distraction to hear God clearly Interior renewal before exterior expression Key Themes: Metanoia (repentance as a change of mind) From self-focus to Christ-focus From distraction to silence From burdened identity to beloved truth Scripture References: Genesis 3:19 – “Remember that you are dust…” Mark 1:15 – “Repent and believe in the Gospel.” Matthew 6:1–18 – Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.” Connect with Us: 🌿 Website: thewonderfulcounselor.org 📖 Instagram: @the_wonderful_counselor 🕊 Facebook: The Wonderful Counselor If this episode encouraged you as you enter the Lenten season, would you leave a review? It helps more women discover this sacred space for Christ-centered healing and identity renewal.

    26 min
  4. 3 FEB

    New Year, New Start Part 3

    In the final part of the New Year, New Start series, Latisha Sternod and Jen Clark round out the SPIES wellness framework by diving into Intellectual, Emotional, and Social wellness. This episode is an uplifting, wisdom-filled guide to growing your mind, nurturing your heart, and fostering healthy relationships, key areas that often go overlooked in personal development plans. Through heartfelt stories, expert insight, and faith-filled encouragement, Jen and Latisha inspire listeners to embrace lifelong learning, emotional resilience, and vibrant community connection in 2026. Whether you're an introvert finding your pace or a couple looking to grow together, this episode offers practical steps to thrive in every season. In this episode, we talk about: What intellectual wellness looks like beyond school and degrees How learning a new skill or language stimulates brain health Tips for setting intellectual goals without pressure Why a growth mindset and grace matter in adult learning Healthy emotional processing and personal emotional strategies The impact of inner dialogue and speaking life over yourself The role of community in emotional health How social connection boosts longevity and joy Creating intentional relationships in every season of life The importance of putting yourself “in the arena” to connect Anchor Quote: “Put yourself in the arena. You were made for connection. God created us to be in communion with one another.” – Jen Clark Reflection: What if this year you didn’t aim to master everything—but simply chose to start something new, feel more deeply, and connect more intentionally? What if learning, healing, and community were your holiest pursuits? Step into this season of growth, knowing that every step matters and grace meets you in every new beginning. Resources & Mentions: Framework: SPIES – Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, Social (This episode focuses on Intellectual, Emotional, and Social wellness) Books: A New Day, A New Start: Seek Your Sunshine by Jen Clark The Wonderful Counselor by Latisha Sternod Tools & Tips: Intellectual goals: Read 5 books, learn an instrument, take an adventure Emotional strategies: Music, journaling, exercise, prayer, solitude Inner dialogue: Speak life over your body and your efforts Social tips: Connect through shared interests, service, or faith groups Grace reminder: Mastery takes 10,000 hours—start with your first 10 Scripture Reference: Proverbs 18:21 – “The tongue has the power of life and death…” Luke 5:16 – “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – “Two are better than one… if either of them falls, one can help the other up.” Connect with Us: 🌿 Website: thewonderfulcounselor.org 📖 Instagram: @the_wonderful_counselor 🕊 Facebook: The Wonderful Counselor If this episode inspired you, please leave a review. It helps more women walk into healing, wholeness, and wholehearted connection.

    19 min
  5. 20 JAN

    New Year, New Start Part 2

    In this powerful continuation of our New Year, New Start series, Latisha Sternod and Jen Clark shift the focus from spiritual growth to physical and intellectual renewal. This episode is full of practical encouragement and expert insight to help you step into 2026 with clarity, intention, and grace—especially when it comes to your body and your mind. From cardio and strength training to lifelong learning and curiosity, Jen and Latisha explore how to set sustainable goals rooted in love, not shame. You’ll learn how to embrace the physical body as a temple of the Holy Spirit and how to expand your intellectual life in alignment with your calling and gifts. In this episode, we talk about: Why traditional New Year’s resolutions often fail—and what works instead A holistic approach to physical wellness: cardio, strength, flexibility, rest, and nutrition How to create realistic fitness goals at any age or ability level Viewing self-care as sacred, not selfish How to listen to your body to prevent burnout or injury Nutritional basics: clean eating without shame or extremes The importance of water and movement to detox the body and spirit Intellectual wellness: lifelong learning as worship How to expand your knowledge through reading, research, and creative expression Anchor Quote: “Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. Taking care of your body isn’t vanity—it’s honoring God’s presence in you.” – Jen Clark Reflection: What if your fitness goal wasn’t about changing your body, but loving it well? What if nourishing your mind could be a form of prayer? This year, don’t just grow stronger—grow truer to the person God created you to be. Resources & Mentions: Framework: SPIES – Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, Social (This episode focuses on Physical & Intellectual; Emotional & Social coming in Part 3) Books: A New Day, A New Start: Seek Your Sunshine by Jen Clark The Wonderful Counselor by Latisha Sternod Tools & Tips: SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound Nutrition tip: “If you can’t pronounce it, don’t eat it.” Fitness tip: Cardio (aerobic & anaerobic), strength, flexibility, and rest are all essential Intellectual growth idea: Read books, explore saints’ writings, try a new creative outlet Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 6:19 – “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit?” Matthew 22:39 – “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Connect with Us: 🌿 Website: thewonderfulcounselor.org 📖 Instagram: @the_wonderful_counselor 🕊 Facebook: The Wonderful Counselor If this episode encouraged you, would you leave a review? It helps more women embrace healing and wholeness, body, mind, and soul.

    21 min
  6. 6 JAN

    New Year, New Start Part 1

    In this energizing and soul-centered start to 2026, Latisha Sternod and Jen Clark kick off a special three-part series: New Year, New Start. This episode focuses on the most essential dimension of personal growth, spiritual formation. Whether you’re brand new to faith or a lifelong Christian ready to go deeper, this conversation offers powerful tools, reflections, and ideas to ground your goals in divine purpose. Latisha and Jen introduce the “SPIES” framework for holistic living—spiritual, physical, intellectual, emotional, and social—and dive deep into the S: spirituality. They offer practical guidance on how to explore or strengthen your faith life through prayer, tradition, scripture, and community. In this episode, we talk about: How to create spiritual goals that match your unique starting point Exploring faith for the first time or returning after a long pause The promise of God when you seek Him with a sincere heart Practical ideas for growing spiritually: Mass, Adoration, retreats, pilgrimages Using tools like the Catechism in a Year and Bible in a Year The value of Christian spiritual traditions (Carmelites, Franciscans, Jesuits) Why community matters in your spiritual journey How to approach prayer with patience, grace, and real expectations Anchor Quote: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can… Make your spiritual goal achievable so you feel victory—not shame.” – Jen Clark   Reflection: Your spiritual life doesn’t need to be impressive—it just needs to be intentional. Whether you’re lighting a candle for the first time or signing up for your first pilgrimage, God meets you where you are. And He walks with you every step of the way. Resources & Mentions: Framework: SPIES – Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, Social (Full series continues in future episodes) Apps & Tools: Formed – Catholic digital content platform Hallow – Prayer & meditation app Catechism in a Year and Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz Books: A New Day, A New Start: Seek Your Sunshine by Jen Clark The Wonderful Counselor by Latisha Sternod Scripture Reference: Matthew 7:7 – “Seek and you will find.” Psalm 34:4 – “I sought the Lord, and He answered me.” Connect with Us: 🌿 Website: thewonderfulcounselor.org 📖 Instagram: @the_wonderful_counselor 🕊 Facebook: The Wonderful Counselor If this episode blessed you, please leave a review. It helps other women find the space they need to grow, heal, and walk closely with Christ in the year ahead.

    20 min
  7. 30/12/2025

    Strengthening Body and Spirit: What True Healing Looks Like

    In this heartfelt and theologically-rich episode of Faithfully Healed, Latisha Sternod and Jen Clark explore what true healing really means, from the physical pain in our bodies to the hidden wounds in our spirits. With honesty, compassion, and practical wisdom, they unpack how healing is more than symptom relief, it’s a full-body, full-soul transformation. Drawing from scripture, personal stories, and decades of counseling and coaching experience, they reveal why healing often includes suffering, how Christ models embodied wholeness, and what it means to truly answer the question: Do you want to be healed? In this episode, we talk about: The intersection of spiritual, emotional, and physical healing John 1:14 and the meaning of the Word becoming flesh Why some pain remains—and how God still heals through it The example of Paul’s thorn and suffering as spiritual refinement Exposure therapy, scripture, and facing the thing that hurts How bitterness or grief can block healing—and how to release it Why anger at God is normal—and where it can lead you The deeper “why” of healing and how it connects to our purpose Anchor Quote: “With a strong, healthy body, you can be your best you. You bring joy to God by loving others with renewed energy, which brings renewed life.” – Jen Clark Reflection: Healing may not come the way you imagined—but it is coming. It might look like tears. Or truth. Or doing that painful stretch one more time. Christ doesn't just want to fix you. He wants to transform you. Resources & Mentions: Books: A New Day, A New Start: Seek Your Sunshine by Jen Clark (Page 102: Final reflection) The Wonderful Counselor by Latisha Sternod (Page 38: John 1:14 – “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us”) Scripture References: John 1:14 – “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” 2 Corinthians 12:7–9 – Paul’s thorn and God's grace John 5:6 – “Do you want to be healed?” Connect with Us: 🌿 Website: thewonderfulcounselor.org 📖 Instagram: @the_wonderful_counselor 🕊 Facebook: The Wonderful Counselor If this episode blessed you, would you leave a review? It helps more women find this sacred space for Christ-centered healing in body, mind, and soul.

    25 min
  8. 16/12/2025

    Sacred Movement: Praying With Your Whole Body

    In this rich and spiritually grounding episode of Faithfully Healed, Latisha Sternod and Jen Clark explore the beauty of sacred movement, how prayer and physical embodiment unite to bring deeper peace, healing, and wholeness. From walking rosaries and kneeling postures to mountain biking meditations, they reveal that your body isn’t just a vessel, it’s a participant in prayer. Latisha breaks down how somatic practices, backed by neuroscience and Christian tradition, invite us into deeper communion with God. Whether you’re holding tension in your body, struggling to focus during prayer, or simply yearning for more integration between your faith and daily life, this episode offers hope and practical tools. In this episode, we talk about: What it means to pray with your body, not just your words The neuroscience behind emotions, thoughts, and behaviors How Catholic liturgy is deeply somatic, engaging all the senses Walking rosaries as embodied meditation Why stretching can be a spiritual practice Practical ways to regulate anxiety while staying present with God The power of posture in prayer: kneeling, lying down, or biking with the Lord Why it’s okay for your prayers to feel “crummy”, God still meets you there Anchor Quote: “Our heart determines our thoughts. Our thoughts determine our words. Our words determine our behavior… therefore, our heart determines our destiny.” – Jen Clark Reflection: Your body is not a distraction to prayer—it’s the place God wants to meet you. What if your healing isn’t about praying harder, but about praying truer—with your breath, your stretch, your tears, your steps? Resources & Mentions: Books: A New Day, A New Start: Seek Your Sunshine by Jen Clark (Page 79: Chapter “The Power of Seeking Joy”) The Wonderful Counselor by Latisha Sternod (Page 97: Pursuing wellness and sanctity) Scripture Reference: Colossians 3:15 – “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” Connect with Us: 🌿 Website: thewonderfulcounselor.org 📖 Instagram: @the_wonderful_counselor 🕊 Facebook: The Wonderful Counselor If this episode stirred your soul, please consider leaving a review. It helps other women find this sacred space for body-based, faith-filled healing.

    23 min

About

Faithfully Healed is a sacred, trauma-informed space created especially for Catholic Christian women navigating anxiety, burnout, grief, and emotional disconnection. Hosted by Latisha Sternod, MS, LMHC—licensed trauma therapist and founder + CEO of The Wonderful Counselor™—this podcast blends somatic healing, clinical wisdom, and unwavering faith. Each week, you’ll find honest conversations, spiritual grounding, and practical tools to help you heal emotionally—without abandoning your faith. Rooted deeply in the Catholic tradition and open to the movement of the Holy Spirit, Faithfully Healed honors the wisdom of the feminine as revealed through Scripture, the saints, and the sacred design of the body. Whether you’re longing for deeper peace, nervous system support, or a more embodied walk with God—this is a place to feel seen, anchored, and faithfully healed.