The Catholic Therapist

Have you ever wanted to journal but didn't know where to start — or tried and gave up because it felt too rigid, too vulnerable, or just not for you? In this episode, Catholic therapist Adam Cross, LMFT (#116623) sits down with Amber from the Catholic Counseling Institute to unpack the surprising depth of journaling as a tool for mental health and spiritual growth. From the neuroscience of narrative storytelling to inner child check-ins, morning pages to sketchbooks, this conversation covers journaling in all its forms — with warmth, humor, and real clinical insight. Topics covered:• The neuroscience of narrative and why journaling releases serotonin• Adam's simple emotional check-in method: sad, mad, glad, afraid• Free-association morning pages, sketchbooks, and non-word journaling• The Catholic history of journaling from early Church Fathers to modern saints• How to journal about trauma safely — without retraumatizing yourself• Inner child and parts work journaling for deeper self-awareness• AI and journaling: a thoughtful caution with practical guidance• A summer challenge to build a daily check-in habit Whether you're brand new to journaling or looking to deepen your practice, this episode offers something for everyone seeking a more honest, compassionate relationship with themselves. Have questions? Visit my website: adamcrossmft.comAdam Cross, LMFT #116623

Catholic psychology is growing, but many seminarians and formators still wrestle with how therapy fits into vocation and discernment. In this episode, licensed therapist Adam Cross is joined by Dr. Anthony Isacco, professor and program director at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota, to discuss the launch of a new Catholic clinical psychology program and the deeper role of trust in priestly formation. Together, they explore how psychology, faith, and formation can come together to build healthier priests and more confident discerners. From confidentiality questions to obedience, from human formation to spiritual growth, this conversation sheds light on what’s often hidden behind seminary walls. Topics covered: The rise of Catholic psychology programs and why they matter Online vs in-person training for Catholic therapists Human formation in seminary: why maturity, relationships, and self-knowledge are essential Confidentiality and transparency: how seminarians can approach therapy with trust Obedience and discernment: why trust is harder than celibacy for many seminarians The role of attachment and vulnerability in priestly formation How therapy can serve seminarians, priests, and the Church at large Tune in for a candid, hopeful conversation about integrating Catholic faith with psychology, and how trust in therapy can shape healthier vocations and a stronger Church. Have questions? Visit my website: adamcrossmft.comAdam Cross LMFT #116623

Many people struggle with perfectionism because they don’t realize how faith and therapy can work together. In this episode, Catholic therapist Adam Cross is joined by his colleagues, Colby and Joshua, to explore how understanding your inner critic can lead to profound freedom and self-compassion. Drawing from their own experiences and professional insights, they share how integrating faith with psychological models like Internal Family Systems (IFS) brings hope and healing. Topics covered: The surprising link between perfectionism and procrastination. How to view your inner critic as a protector part that is trying to help you. Practical strategies for calming your nervous system when you feel overwhelmed. The connection between the seven core wounds and the Sacraments. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on faith, psychology, and the journey from perfectionism to peace. Have questions? Visit my website: adamcrossmft.com Adam Cross LMFT #116623

Many Catholics struggle with sexual shame—not because they lack faith, but because they carry deep confusion and fear about desire. In this episode, Catholic therapist Adam Cross explores how scrupulosity distorts our understanding of sexuality, pleasure, and morality, often turning natural human experience into a source of guilt and anxiety. Drawing from both clinical experience and Catholic spirituality, Adam breaks down the inner conflict between faith and desire and shares compassionate, practical tools for navigating scrupulosity without losing your peace—or your humanity. Discover practical insights into: • Why scrupulosity creates fear around sexual desire • The difference between lust and attraction • How anxiety and shame disrupt spiritual clarity • What integrated healing looks like—body, mind, and soul Tune in for a thoughtful and empowering conversation that blends faith and mental health, offering hope to those who feel caught in cycles of guilt and confusion. For more information or questions, visit adamcrossmft.com Adam Cross LMFT #116623

Many people feel stuck—not because they lack motivation, but because they’re waiting for things to be “just right.” In this episode, Catholic therapist Adam Cross explores how perfectionism often hides behind procrastination, and why the pressure to get everything right can keep us from starting at all. Drawing from both clinical experience and Catholic spirituality, Adam breaks down the psychological roots of perfectionism and shares compassionate, practical tools for moving forward — even when things feel messy or incomplete. Discover practical insights into: Why perfectionism leads to procrastination The inner critic and fear of failure How grace and self-compassion create momentum The balance between personal standards and spiritual growth Tune in for a thoughtful and empowering conversation that blends faith and mental health in a way that brings hope to those who feel stuck. For more information or questions, visit adamcrossmft.com Adam Cross LMFT #116623

Many people struggle with anxiety because they don’t realize how faith and therapy can work together. In this episode, Catholic therapist Adam Cross is joined by Danielle Enriquez, LMFT #152199, to explore how embracing acceptance can transform how we navigate anxiety. Drawing from her own experiences and professional insights, Danielle shares how integrating faith into therapy brings hope and healing. Topics covered: How acceptance can lead to joyful living Integrating Catholic faith into mental wellness Practical strategies for managing anxiety The role of community and spirituality in coping Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on faith, acceptance, and the journey to peace. Have questions? Visit my website: adamcrossmft.comAdam Cross LMFT #116623

Many people struggle to find true healing because they don’t realize how faith and therapy can work together. In this episode, Catholic therapists Adam Cross, Kobe Young, and Joshua Hernandez explore the intersection of faith and psychology, sharing how a Catholic perspective shapes their approach to therapy and mental wellness. Topics covered: • Why faith is essential in the healing process • How Catholic therapy differs from secular approaches • Overcoming perfectionism and scrupulosity • Embracing your God-given dignity in mental health Tune in for a powerful discussion on healing, identity, and the role of faith in therapy. Have questions? Visit my website: adamcrossmft.com Adam Cross LMFT #116623