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Understanding and Integrating Holy Anger in Our Lives

This episode explores the concept of holy anger, using Jesus' cleansing of the temple as a case study. Starting with a prayer, it delves into the emotions behind anger, contrasting righteous anger with sinful rage, and discusses how Jesus' actions in the temple demonstrate controlled and purposeful anger. The script covers theological perspectives, references to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, psychological insights, and practical steps for managing anger productively. It emphasizes the difference between feeling anger and acting destructively, promoting emotional regulation and integration as part of spiritual and personal growth. The episode concludes with a prayer for wisdom in handling anger and living in alignment with Christian virtues.

00:00 Opening Prayer and Invocation
01:13 Introduction and Overview
02:14 Context of Jesus Cleansing the Temple
05:37 Exploring Righteous Anger
08:06 Understanding Emotions and the Mood Meter
14:47 The Lie That Anger is Sinful
19:27 Consequences of Suppressing Emotions
21:44 Understanding Anger and Boundaries
22:20 The Problem with Venting
22:47 Techniques for Regulation
23:02 HeartMath and Biofeedback
23:59 Spiritual Integration of Emotions
25:16 The Role of Anger in Values and Justice
28:28 Neurobiological Insights on Anger
30:28 Regulation and Emotional Maturity
35:21 Practical Skills for Managing Anger
36:17 The HEART Framework
39:39 Final Thoughts and Prayer

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The Power and Process of Forgiveness: Merging Psychology and Faith

In this episode, viewers are taken on a deep dive into the concept of forgiveness through the lens of both psychology and theology. The script recounts powerful stories of individuals, from Erica Kirk to Pope John Paul II, who have demonstrated profound forgiveness in the face of unspeakable wrongs. It emphasizes that forgiveness is not about excusing the offense or canceling justice, but rather a moral decision to release resentment and extend mercy. The episode outlines a four-phase process of forgiveness – uncovering hurt, deciding to forgive, doing the work of forgiveness, and discovering its freedom – while exploring its psychological benefits such as reduced anxiety and improved mental health. The discussion also busts myths about forgiveness, examines its physical impacts on the body, and offers practical steps for individuals to integrate forgiveness into their everyday lives.

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Forgiveness
00:34 Historical Examples of Forgiveness
02:11 Understanding Forgiveness: What It Is and Isn't
04:28 The Process of Forgiveness
09:18 Psychological and Physical Benefits of Forgiveness
12:35 Forgiveness as a Moral Act
19:21 Practical Steps to Practice Forgiveness
22:37 Conclusion: Forgiveness as a Journey

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Physical Attraction and Catholic Dating: Navigating Sparks and Substance

In this episode of 'The Catholic Couch,' Amber Pilkington tackles the complex topic of physical attraction in Catholic dating. She explores whether initial sparks are necessary for a successful, holy marriage and discusses the possibility of attraction growing over time. Amber delves into what the Church and psychology say about physical attraction and how it relates to a lasting, faithful relationship. Using historical context, research studies, and theological insights, she highlights the importance of balancing freedom and structure in relationships. Additionally, Amber provides practical tips for couples to deepen their attraction and discusses the role biological and mental health factors play in romantic desire. The episode offers a balanced view, emphasizing that while physical attraction is important, it should grow alongside emotional and spiritual connections. Viewers are encouraged to explore the beauty of character and virtues in their relationships, supported by free downloadable resources designed to foster intimacy and connection.

00:00 Introduction: The Elephant in Catholic Dating
01:11 The Role of Attraction in Catholic Dating
03:17 Historical Perspectives on Marriage
05:35 The Church's Stance on Free Consent in Marriage
09:09 Psychological Insights on Attraction
12:26 Practical Tips for Growing Attraction
23:13 The Impact of Hormones and Medication on Attraction
26:45 Balancing Physical and Spiritual Attraction
28:41 Conclusion: Embracing Attraction in Catholic Relationships

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The R.E.P.A.I.R Method: Strengthening Catholic Marriages

This video explains how a simple gesture like lighting a candle can help save and strengthen a marriage, especially within the Catholic faith. The speaker introduces the R.E.P.A.I.R. method, a six-step faith-filled framework designed to help couples reflect, take responsibility, pray, validate feelings, reconnect, and reconcile effectively after conflicts. Through detailed examples of fictional couples, the speaker demonstrates the practical application of these steps and emphasizes the importance of tangible gestures and spiritual practices in fostering emotional safety and unity. This method aims not only at resolving conflicts but also at deepening the marital bond by living out the sacrament of marriage.

00:00 The Power of a Simple Gesture
00:48 Introducing the R.E.P.A.I.R Framework
01:43 Attachment and Repair in Relationships
02:16 Examples of Effective and Ineffective Repairs
04:30 The Role of a Candle in Reconciliation
05:51 The Pitfalls of 'Offering It Up'
07:09 Understanding Attachment Wounds
08:09 The R.E.P.A.I.R Method Steps
08:22 Reflect and Regulate
09:01 Express Responsibility
11:14 Presence and Prayer
12:49 Acknowledge Feelings
15:10 Initiate Connection
17:54 Rebuild and Reconcile
19:50 Conclusion and Resources

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Join Amber Pilkington on the Catholic Couch as she addresses the common issue of spiritual bypassing among faithful Catholics. Despite regular prayer and devotion, many still feel anxious, stuck, or unhealed. Amber explains how spiritual bypassing—using faith practices to avoid dealing with painful emotions—impacts emotional well-being. Drawing on research and personal insights, she offers gentle guidance on acknowledging these emotions and integrating them into one's spiritual journey. Learn how to achieve authentic healing without abandoning your faith. This episode includes practical steps and a free guide with journal prompts to help you break free from spiritual bypassing.

00:00 Introduction: Feeling Stuck in Faith

00:28 Understanding Spiritual Bypassing

01:01 Personal Reflections and Tender Conversations

03:12 Defining Spiritual Bypassing

03:55 Examples of Spiritual Bypassing

05:57 Why We Fall into Spiritual Bypassing

09:49 Research on Spiritual Bypassing

15:45 Steps to Heal from Spiritual Bypassing

19:13 Final Reflections and Invitation

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Monday Morning Moments for Catholic Moms: Finding Peace and Prayer Amidst Chaos

In this uplifting episode, the host kicks off with a warm welcome to all Catholic moms, spiritual mothers, and grandmothers, reflecting on a recent Catholic Women's Conference. She offers insight into the life of St. Martha of Bethany, tying it to a reflection on community, prayer, and the importance of belonging. The episode features an in-depth exegesis of the Gospel, focusing on themes of prayer, asking for needs, and interpreting God's silence. The speaker introduces several practical skills from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for managing stress and grounding oneself in moments of chaos, emphasizing prayer, imagery, and relaxation. Lists of challenges for self-care, marriage, and parenting are provided, along with practical home organization tips. The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer encouraging listeners to carry the peace of God into their daily lives.

00:00 Morning Greetings and Introductions
01:54 Weekend Recap and Announcements
02:49 Saint Trivia and Reflections
05:52 Gospel Insights and Exegesis
17:35 Distress Tolerance Skills
38:25 Practical Applications and Challenges
43:27 Closing Remarks and Prayer

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Top 10 Lies from the Devil Affecting Your Mental Health

In this episode of the Catholic Couch podcast, Amber Pilkington, a Catholic therapist, addresses the silent suffering of Catholics dealing with anxiety. She debunks the top 10 subtle lies from the devil that erode mental health and spiritual peace, particularly among those struggling with scrupulosity, perfectionism, and intrusive thoughts. Amber emphasizes how these lies distort spiritual truths, impeding peace and joy, and offers practical psychological and spiritual solutions to counter these falsehoods. This episode combines faith and neuroscience to help listeners recognize, debunk, and overcome these pervasive lies. Amber invites listeners to engage further with a course designed to provide lasting relief from scrupulosity and intrusive thoughts.

00:00 Introduction: The Silent Struggle with Anxiety

00:32 Top 10 Lies from the Devil Wrecking Your Mental Health

01:34 Lie #10: If You Don't Feel Forgiven, You Aren't

03:50 Lie #9: Joy is Suspicious

05:29 Lie #8: You Are Too Damaged to Be a Good Parent, Spouse, or Catholic

07:52 Lie #7: If I Set Boundaries, I'm Being Unloving

10:45 Lie #6: You Are Only Valuable When You're Useful

13:22 Lie #5: If You Need Help, You Are Weak

15:42 Identifying the Root of Your Pain

16:15 Understanding Scrupulosity and Anxiety

19:51 The Lie: Anxiety Equals Spiritual Failure

23:10 The Lie: God is Disappointed in Me

25:59 The Lie: Holiness Means No Anxiety

28:03 Steps to Overcome These Lies

29:02 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

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Finding Peace Amidst Chaos: Thought Diffusion for Catholic Moms

Join us on this Monday morning as we explore spiritual and psychological insights tailored for Catholic moms. We open with a reflection on grace, followed by a trivia segment about Saint Mary MacKillop, the first Australian saint. The central theme focuses on the gospel’s message about letting go of control and finding true peace through divine providence. Learn about the concept of thought diffusion—a CBT skill that helps create space between you and your thoughts, enabling you to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. We offer practical applications of this skill for individual well-being, marriage, and parenting. Additional highlights include menu ideas, school preparation tips, and personal anecdotes, all tied together with prayers and songs designed to uplift your spirit. Don't miss our seasonal heads up and exclusive resources to help you navigate life with renewed faith and clarity.

00:00 Morning Grace and Joyful Beginnings

10:28 Welcome and Community Engagement

11:04 Saint Trivia: Saint Mary McKillop

13:53 Theme Introduction: Letting Go of Control

14:09 Prayer for Peace and Trust

14:55 Gospel Reflection: The Rich Man's Parable

16:55 Understanding Thought Diffusion

24:06 Practical Applications for Catholic Moms

42:09 Weekly Challenges and Seasonal Tips

49:02 Closing Prayer and Final Thoughts

Download the handouts HERE: https://catholic-counseling-institute-2.kit.com/41169e66a5

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