Being Human Dr. Gregory Bottaro

Welcome to Episode 176 of the Being Human Podcast: Human Suffering and Healing: A Roundtable Discussion with Dr. Paul Vitz, Dr. Gerry Crete and Mother Natalia
In this episode, Dr. Greg had a great conversation with Dr. Paul Vitz, his professor from the Institute for Psychological Sciences, Mother Natalia from Christ the Bridegroom Monastery, and Dr. Gerry Crete, the author of Litanies of the Heart. Their discussion highlighted the deep interconnection between psychological and spiritual healing. They also critiqued contemporary psychology and cultural trends, challenging the dangers of individualism while promoting the importance of community and connection. By drawing parallels with Jesus' suffering on the cross, they reflected on the significance of relationships and compassion in navigating life's complexities.
 
Discussed in the episode:
A discussion on the significance of integrating psychology and faith to purify and strengthen one’s understanding of human suffering
Reflections on how suffering can serve as a common denominator that connects us all - how it brings us together, and how it provides us a path to deeper understanding of the human person
Recognizing the beauty of how wounded healers are capable of sharing a unique perspective from their own experiences of suffering and healing, and how through this, they are able to provide genuine support and guidance to others
Understanding the impact and dangers of today’s cultural emphasis on autonomy, and how this often leads people to isolation and anxiety
An exploration on how today’s culture teaches us to avoid the discomfort of “suffering with” others, resorting to quick fixes when it comes to healing and transformation
Insights on how one’s personal relationship with God and relationship with others is essential in the healing process, and how it is through this can one experience true freedom, healing and transformation 
 
Resources mentioned or relevant: 
You’re invited to CatholicPsych’s first-ever live event to celebrate the beauty and power of integration! Sign up for the Summit of Integration here
Learn more about our Certification program (CatholicPsych Model of Applied Personalism)!
 
Dr. Gerry Crete’s Book, “Litanies of the Heart
Dr. Paul Vitz’s Book, “Psychology as Religion: The Cult of Self-Worship”
Mother Natalia’s Podcast at “Pints With Aquinas”
Therapy of Spiritual Illnesses by Jean-Claude Larchet
Episode #174: Healing or Harm? (discussion of Abigail Shrier’s book Bad Therapy)
 
Need help? Schedule a free consultation call with someone on our team to discuss how we can support you;
Sign up for Being Human, our weekly newsletter, for encouragement on your journey of becoming the best human you can be;
Visit our website to read the CatholicPsych blog, shop in the CatholicPsych bookshop, or discover other resources we have available; 
Download The Integrated App for access to free audio exercises, the Catholic Mindfulness Virtual Retreat, courses, prayer resources, and more; 
Become a member of the Integrated Life Community to get access to every course Dr. Greg has created, plus the opportunity to participate in Integrated LIVE’s - weekly, Mentor hosted Q&As covering topics like boundaries, communication, trauma, forgiveness, and more!
Follow us on Instagram: @catholicpsych. 
Contact us! Have a topic or a question you would like Dr. Greg to address on the podcast? Want to give some feedback about this episode? Email us at beinghuman@catholicpsych.com - we would love to hear from you!
 
Rate, review, and subscribe
Please help us in our mission to integrate the Faith with Psychology by hitting subscribe and also sharing this podcast with your friends.
Please consider rating or leaving a review of our show. It helps us reach other Catholics just like you who want to become more integrated, whole, and happy human beings.
For Apple podcasts, click here

Welcome to Episode 175 of the Being Human Podcast: Rethinking Formation: Preparing Priests for the Future with Father Sam Kachuba
In today’s episode, Dr. Greg had a conversation with Father Sam Kachuba, a pastor, a podcaster and one of our Partner Mentors at CatholicPsych. They share insights on priesthood formation and the significance of CatholicPsych’s Certification Program’s Capstone Project. They explore the differences between traditional academic programs and hands-on Certification. They also talk about the challenges that priests encounter, and their need for proper support and mentorship to guide them in their personal growth and healing, self-awareness, and emotional readiness. They emphasize the importance of providing priests with comprehensive formation programs that can develop their skills in pastoral ministry, spiritual direction and mental health support.
 
Discussed in the episode:
Father Sam’s witnessing on his personal experiences with CatholicPsych’s Certification Program and how it has impacted his personal growth and various aspects of his pastoral work as a priest
Exploring the gaps and challenges faced by new priests especially in their first assignments, the lack of formation and foundation among priests of today, and the difficulties priests face 
Understanding the importance of proper mentorship, consistent guidance and a solid human formation in the life of seminarians and priests, and how these can have powerful impact on the effectiveness of pastoral and ministry work
Navigating the significant shifts in the Church since 2001 and their impact on seminarians and priests
Insights into the four pillars of seminary formation—human, intellectual, spiritual, and pastoral—and how they're essential for a well-rounded formation
 
Resources mentioned or relevant: 
Summit of Integration: CatholicPsych’s live event to celebrate the beauty and power of integration! 
Learn more about our Certification Program (CatholicPsych Model of Applied Personalism)!

Need help? Schedule a free consultation call with someone on our team to discuss how we can support you; 
Sign up for Being Human, our weekly newsletter, for encouragement on your journey of becoming the best human you can be;
Visit our website to read the CatholicPsych blog, shop in the CatholicPsych bookshop, or discover other resources we have available; 
 Download The Integrated App for access to free audio exercises, the Catholic Mindfulness Virtual Retreat, courses, prayer resources, and more;  
Become a member of the Integrated Life Community to get access to every course Dr. Greg has created, plus the opportunity to participate in Integrated LIVE’s - weekly, Mentor hosted Q&As covering topics like boundaries, communication, trauma, forgiveness, and more!
Follow us on Instagram: @catholicpsych. 
 Contact us! Have a topic or a question you would like Dr. Greg to address on the podcast? Want to give some feedback about this episode? Email us at beinghuman@catholicpsych.com - we would love to hear from you!
 
Rate, review, and subscribe 
Please help us in our mission to integrate the Faith with Psychology by hitting subscribe and also sharing this podcast with your friends.
Please consider rating or leaving a review of our show. It helps us reach other Catholics just like you who want to become more integrated, whole, and happy human beings.
 For Apple podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate 5 stars, and choose “write a review.” Then type your sincere thoughts about the show!
 If you haven’t already, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on any episodes. Subscribe to the podcast now!

Welcome to Episode 174 of the Being Human Podcast: Healing or Harm? Unveiling the Truth About Bad Therapy
In this podcast episode, Dr. Greg delves into the controversial book, “Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up” by Abigail Shrier, which critiques modern psychotherapeutic practice, and exposes the dangers and ineffectiveness of current mental health trends. He talks about how mainstream psychology lacks integration of spiritual dimensions, and how this often leads to misguided treatments. He also discussed today's lack of certainty when it comes to mental health diagnoses and how current therapeutic interventions can worsen conditions. 
 
Discussed in the episode:
Understanding how secular psychology often overlooks the spiritual aspect of human life, leading to incomplete diagnoses and treatments
A discussion on the concept of iatrogenesis and how misdiagnosis and incorrect interventions in therapy, and the lack of certainty in mental health practices, can lead to more harm than good
An exploration on the 10 principles of bad therapy discussed by Abigail Shrier in her book, and how these principles highlight the dangers of neglecting the holistic nature of human beings
A critique on the prevailing authority and weight assigned to therapists' judgments and diagnoses, emphasizing the need for greater humility and awareness in mental health practices
A reflection on the fundamental human longing for spiritual fulfillment and its relevance to psychological distress
An emphasis on the unpopular truth that only a holistic approach to therapy, grounded in a Catholic understanding of the human person, can provide deeper insights, more effective treatments strategies, leading individuals towards true healing and flourishing
 
Resources mentioned or relevant: 
Bad Therapy: Why The Kids Aren’t Growing Up by Abigail Shrier
Psychology as Religion: The Cult of Self-Worship by Dr. Paul C. Vitz
You’re invited to CatholicPsych’s first-ever live event to celebrate the beauty and power of integration! Sign up for the Summit of Integration here
Learn more about our Certification program (CatholicPsych Model of Applied Personalism)!



Need help? Schedule a free consultation call with someone on our team to discuss how we can support you;
Sign up for Being Human, our weekly newsletter, for encouragement on your journey of becoming the best human you can be;
Visit our website to read the CatholicPsych blog, shop in the CatholicPsych bookshop, or discover other resources we have available; 
Download The Integrated App for access to free audio exercises, the Catholic Mindfulness Virtual Retreat, courses, prayer resources, and more; 
Become a member of the Integrated Life Community to get access to every course Dr. Greg has created, plus the opportunity to participate in Integrated LIVE’s - weekly, Mentor hosted Q&As covering topics like boundaries, communication, trauma, forgiveness, and more!
Follow us on Instagram: @catholicpsych. 
Contact us! Have a topic or a question you would like Dr. Greg to address on the podcast? Want to give some feedback about this episode? Email us at beinghuman@catholicpsych.com - we would love to hear from you!
 
Rate, review, and subscribe
Please help us in our mission to integrate the Faith with Psychology by hitting subscribe and also sharing this podcast with your friends.
Please consider rating or leaving a review of our show. It helps us reach other Catholics just like you who want to become more integrated, whole, and happy human beings.
For Apple podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate 5 stars, and choose “write a review.” Then type your sincere thoughts about the show!
If you haven’t already, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on any episodes. Subscribe to the podcast now!

Welcome to Episode 173 of the Being Human Podcast: Unmasking Disintegration: Examining the APA’s Stance on Gender Identity
In this episode, Dr. Greg explores the importance of integration in dealing with complex societal matters. He stresses the need to integrate faith, reason, and science to understand and foster human development. Additionally, he addresses the troubling developments within the American Psychological Association, specifically its recent policy statement on transgender issues. The importance of a philosophical perspective that acknowledges the unity of body and personhood is highlighted, as well as advocating for hope, truth, and compassion in confronting societal challenges.
 
Discussed in the episode:
Understanding how the integration of faith, reason and science is essential for human flourishing and navigating complex issues effectively
Insights on how the recent policy statement from the American Psychological Association (APA) regarding transgender, gender diverse, and non-binary individuals raises significant concerns 
A critical examination of the APA's policy, highlighting its departure from scientific rigor and promotion of ideologies undermining fundamental truths
Reflections on the recent developments towards a more holistic approach to understanding gender dysphoria, and the need for integration to provide compassionate care
The importance of advocating for hope, providing compassionate care and seeking the light of Christ in the pursuit of truth amidst societal complexities
 
Resources mentioned or relevant: 
APA Policy Statement on Affirming Evidence-Based Inclusive Care for Transgender, Gender Diverse, and Nonbinary Individuals, Addressing Misinformation, and the Role of Psychological Practice and Science
Episode 149: A New Approach to the Gender Crisis
Episode 151: From Gender Dysphoria to Gender Integration: A Proposal
Episode 152: Towards a New Revolution of Gender Truth
Episode 153: How To Talk About Gender Issues
Episode 155: How To Help Those Suffering with Gender Confusion
Episode 157: For Those Holding the Line Between Two Extremes (A Gender Series Follow Up)
You’re invited to CatholicPsych’s first-ever live event to celebrate the beauty and power of integration! Sign up for the Summit of Integration here
 
Need help? Schedule a free consultation call with someone on our team to discuss how we can support you;
Learn more about our CPMAP Certification!
Sign up for Being Human, our weekly newsletter, for encouragement on your journey of becoming the best human you can be; 
Visit our website to read the CatholicPsych blog, shop in the CatholicPsych bookshop, or discover other resources we have available; 
Download The Integrated App for access to free audio exercises, the Catholic Mindfulness Virtual Retreat, courses, prayer resources, and more; 
Become a member of the Integrated Life Community to get access to every course Dr. Greg has created, plus the opportunity to participate in Integrated LIVE’s - weekly, Mentor hosted Q&As covering topics like boundaries, communication, trauma, forgiveness, and more!
Follow us on Instagram: @catholicpsych. 
Contact us! Have a topic or a question you would like Dr. Greg to address on the podcast? Want to give some feedback about this episode? Email us at beinghuman@catholicpsych.com - we would love to hear from you!
 
Rate, review, and subscribe 
Please help us in our mission to integrate the Faith with Psychology by hitting subscribe and also sharing this podcast with your friends.
Please consider rating or leaving a review of our show. It helps us reach other Catholics just like you who want to become more integrated, whole, and happy human beings. 
For Apple podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate 5 stars, and choose “write a review.” Then type your sincere thoughts about the show!
If you haven’t already, make sure to subscribe so you don

Welcome to Episode 172 of the Being Human Podcast: A Journey through Faith and Music with John Michael Talbot
In this episode, Dr. Greg had a conversation with John Michael Talbot, a Catholic author, musician and the founder of Brothers and Sisters of Charity. He shares his inspiring conversion to Catholicism, and the impact of his faith on his music. They discuss the importance of the mystical and contemplative dimension in his life, emphasizing the need for artists to go deep in prayer and trust in Divine Providence. They also reflect on the challenges of community and individualism in today's world. Despite the uncertainties of the future, he encourages us all to remain faithful and to trust in God's plan.
 
Discussed in the episode:
How John experienced pivotal moments in his life that led to his conversion and his search for deeper spiritual truths, mysticism, contemplative prayer and the early Church Fathers
John’s story of conversion to Catholicism and the profound impact it had on his life and music
Understanding how contemplative prayer influences artistic expression and how true art arises from a deep union with God
John’s advice to artists to “mine the gold” of God’s special gift to them and “do well what you do well”
Recounting John’s life-changing mystical experience during a period of illness, where he encountered God’s forgiveness and mercy in a profound way
Exploring the challenges of individualism and the impact of technology in Western society and the importance of fostering authentic community grounded in love and faith
Reflections on navigating the uncertainties of the future with faith and trust in God’s providence, and emphasizing the importance of staying faithful
 
Resources mentioned or relevant: 
Summit of Integration Event
John Michael Talbot’s Official Website
John Michael Talbot’s Youtube Channel
John Michael Talbot’s Books
Little Portion Hermitage and Monastery

 
Need help? Schedule a free consultation call with someone on our team to discuss how we can support you;
Learn more about our CPMAP Certification!
Sign up for Being Human, our weekly newsletter, for encouragement on your journey of becoming the best human you can be;
Visit our website to read the CatholicPsych blog, shop in the CatholicPsych bookshop, or discover other resources we have available; 
Download The Integrated App for access to free audio exercises, the Catholic Mindfulness Virtual Retreat, courses, prayer resources, and more; 
Become a member of the Integrated Life Community to get access to every course Dr. Greg has created, plus the opportunity to participate in Integrated LIVE’s - weekly, Mentor hosted Q&As covering topics like boundaries, communication, trauma, forgiveness, and more!
Follow us on Instagram: @catholicpsych. 
Contact us! Have a topic or a question you would like Dr. Greg to address on the podcast? Want to give some feedback about this episode? Email us at beinghuman@catholicpsych.com - we would love to hear from you!
 
Rate, review, and subscribe
Please help us in our mission to integrate the Faith with Psychology by hitting subscribe and also sharing this podcast with your friends.
Please consider rating or leaving a review of our show. It helps us reach other Catholics just like you who want to become more integrated, whole, and happy human beings.
For Apple podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate 5 stars, and choose “write a review.” Then type your sincere thoughts about the show!
If you haven’t already, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on any episodes. Subscribe to the podcast now!
 

Welcome to Episode 171 of the Being Human Podcast: Catholic Mindfulness on College Campus
In this episode, the last of our six-part series for Lent, I had a conversation with Lily McGibbon – a sophomore at the University of Notre Dame (and granddaughter of Paul Vitz!) - to discuss the integration of Catholicism with psychology and mindfulness.  Lily shares her perspective on the topics of mental health and gender ideology at Notre Dame as well as the changing attitudes towards marriage and relationships among college students. We also explore the relevance of incorporating Catholic mindfulness into daily life. 
 
Discussed in the episode:
Exploring how the integration of Catholicism with psychology and mindfulness in gaining traction on college campuses nowadays
A discussion on how exposure to diverse perspectives and challenging environments can lead to personal growth and deeper understanding of one’s faith
Reflections on how attitudes towards marriage and relationships vary among college students, with some prioritizing career aspirations
Understanding that Catholic mindfulness often combines elements of Eastern philosophy and Catholic theology, emphasizing the importance of being present and filling oneself with grace and goodness
Discussion on how Catholicism is often misunderstood as unsympathetic towards mental health issues, and reflections on how Catholic faith actually does provide guidance and support in dealing with anxiety and depression
Understanding how faith plays a crucial role in mental life and how an active prayer life can provide support and understanding in how we receive God’s guidance and navigate the busyness of daily life
An emphasis on how adapting to changing circumstances and being present in the current moment is an important aspect of living a faithful life
 
Resources mentioned or relevant: 
The Mindful Catholic: Finding God One Moment At A Time by Dr. Greg Bottaro
Episode 134: Catholic Mindfulness: Why It's Not Only Okay But Encouraged for Catholics to Practice
Buddhist vs Catholic Mindfulness
Is Mindfulness New Age?
Catholic Mindfulness Is Not Centering Prayer
The Catholic Guide to Mindfulness, or, Coffee - Satan’s Drink
You’re No Angel, but Neither Am I
 
Need help? Schedule a free consultation call with someone on our team to discuss how we can support you; Learn more about our CPMAP Certification!
Sign up for Being Human, our weekly newsletter, for encouragement on your journey of becoming the best human you can be;
Visit our website to read the CatholicPsych blog, shop in the CatholicPsych bookshop, or discover other resources we have available; 
Download The Integrated App for access to free audio exercises, the Catholic Mindfulness Virtual Retreat, courses, prayer resources, and more; 
Become a member of the Integrated Life Community to get access to every course Dr. Greg has created, plus the opportunity to participate in Integrated LIVE’s - weekly, Mentor hosted Q&As covering topics like boundaries, communication, trauma, forgiveness, and more!
Follow us on Instagram: @catholicpsych. 
Contact us! Have a topic or a question you would like Dr. Greg to address on the podcast? Want to give some feedback about this episode? Email us at beinghuman@catholicpsych.com - we would love to hear from you!  
Rate, review, and subscribe
Please help us in our mission to integrate the Faith with Psychology by hitting subscribe and also sharing this podcast with your friends.
Please consider rating or leaving a review of our show. It helps us reach other Catholics just like you who want to become more integrated, whole, and happy human beings.
For Apple podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate 5 stars, and choose “write a review.” Then type your sincere thoughts about the show!
If you haven’t already, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on any episodes. Subscribe to the podcast now!