The Catholic Therapist

Body and Soul: Teaching Kids About Their Identity in Christ (ft. Michael Gasparro)

In this episode, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#116623) Adam Cross sits down with Catholic therapist Michael Gasferro to discuss how to guide children in discovering their identity in Christ. Together, they explore the intersection of faith and psychology, offering practical tools to help kids build a strong foundation rooted in their God-given dignity. Topics include the unity of body and soul, overcoming cultural challenges, and fostering healthy relationships that support spiritual and emotional growth.

With insights from Catholic theology and therapeutic practice, this conversation dives into strategies for parents, educators, and anyone passionate about helping the next generation grow in faith and resilience.

Key Topics Covered:

• Building a Christ-centered identity in children
• Navigating cultural influences through a faith-based lens
• Practical tools for parents and educators to foster resilience
• The role of relational healing in child development

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#IdentityInChrist #CatholicPodcast #ParentingTips #FaithAndPsychology #Healing

Exploring Healing and Embodiment: A Catholic Perspective

Exploring Healing and Embodiment: Theology, Neurobiology, and Integration Join Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#116623) Adam Cross and graduate student/therapist trainee Kolbe Young in an insightful discussion about healing, embodiment, and the integration of body, mind, and soul. Drawing from Theology of the Body, interpersonal neurobiology, and their personal experiences, they explore how physical practices like surfing and mindfulness foster mental and emotional healing. Learn how trauma research, relational connections, and intentional movement enhance spiritual and therapeutic practices.

Discover the profound connection between body and soul through the lens of Catholic theology, practical therapeutic techniques, and unique insights into embodiment. Topics include anxiety, dissociation, if yoga is okay for use by Catholics, and the role of physical awareness in mental health and spiritual growth. Whether you're curious about integrating faith with therapy or seeking practical steps to deepen healing, this conversation offers something for everyone.

Have questions? Please visit my website: adamcrossmft.com

Adam Cross Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #89628​
Supervised by Esther C. Bleuel, M.A. MFT, MDR (31181)

Feeling all the Feels!

In today’s episode, I’m diving into the simple yet incredibly powerful idea of “feeling all the feels.” It’s a journey of truly acknowledging our emotions—no matter how heavy, uncomfortable, or even overwhelming they might be.

I share stories from my sessions and the importance of slowing down to connect with our bodies and emotions. It’s about giving ourselves the space to feel grief, sadness, or even anger and realizing that healing begins when we’re present with ourselves. It may sound simple, but the impact can be life-changing. And guess what? God is right there with us in the midst of it, inviting us into a deeper relationship of self-love and understanding.

 

Have questions? Please visit my website: adamcrossmft.com

Adam Cross Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #89628​
Supervised by Esther C. Bleuel, M.A. MFT, MDR (31181)

Do I Need a CATHOLIC therapist?

 In this episode, I’ll share why having a therapist who truly understands and honors your Catholic faith can be so meaningful. After all, our faith isn’t just a small part of our lives—it shapes who we are in the deepest way possible. But, I also get that finding a Catholic therapist isn’t always easy, especially if you live in a small state or a remote area. So, I’ll talk about practical ways to navigate that, including working with secular therapists when needed and when to be extra mindful. Plus, I'll be sharing some exciting news.

Have questions? Please visit my website: adamcrossmft.com

Adam Cross Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #89628​
Supervised by Esther C. Bleuel, M.A. MFT, MDR (31181)

How to Support Loved Ones Struggling with Mental Health: Understanding, Communication, and Healing

In this episode, we explore how to love and support those struggling with mental health, whether they are family members or close friends. We discuss the importance of seeking to understand their experiences and challenges before offering advice or solutions.

Have questions? Please visit my website: adamcrossmft.com

Adam Cross Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #89628​
Supervised by Esther C. Bleuel, M.A. MFT, MDR (31181)

Partnering with your Intrusive Thoughts?

In this episode, I dive into the intriguing topic of partnering with your intrusive thoughts. If you've been following my podcast, you know I've touched on this in different ways before. However, today, we’re taking a closer look at how to approach these thoughts with curiosity, compassion, and tenderness. Imagine treating these thoughts as if they were a little kid trying to get your attention, rather than something to be feared or rejected.

Have questions? Please visit my website: adamcrossmft.com

Adam Cross Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #89628​
Supervised by Esther C. Bleuel, M.A. MFT, MDR (31181)

Partnering with Your Scruples?

In this episode I discuss the concept of 'partnering with scrupulosity'. Scrupulous parts of us need compassion and healing, not to dictate our lives, but to begin the healing process. We can build a partnership with this part of ourselves to understand its fears and needs.

Have questions? Please visit my website: adamcrossmft.com

Adam Cross Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #89628​
Supervised by Esther C. Bleuel, M.A. MFT, MDR (31181)

Understanding Spiritual Bypassing

In this episode, we delve into the concept of spiritual bypassing in therapy and faith, where individuals use faith as a shortcut to avoid confronting negative emotions and trauma. I discuss the dangers of oversimplifying complex issues like suffering and trauma with superficial faith responses.

Have questions? Please visit my website: adamcrossmft.com

Adam Cross Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #89628​
Supervised by Esther C. Bleuel, M.A. MFT, MDR (31181)

Being Around Those Who Have Hurt You

In this episode, we tackle the challenging topic of interacting with people who have hurt us. I discuss the vital role of discernment, forgiveness, and setting boundaries in such situations. Learn why forgiveness doesn't always equate to reconciliation and how prioritizing your personal safety and boundaries is crucial.

Have questions? Please visit my website: adamcrossmft.com

Adam Cross Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #89628​
Supervised by Esther C. Bleuel, M.A. MFT, MDR (31181)

Abundance of Healing? Your Baptismal Identity

In this episode, we explore the profound significance of being a beloved son or daughter of our Heavenly Father and its pivotal role in the healing process.

Have questions? Please visit my website: adamcrossmft.com

Adam Cross Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #89628​
Supervised by Esther C. Bleuel, M.A. MFT, MDR (31181)