Interior Integration for Catholics

Q: What can St. Bonaventure teach us about our inner life? A: More than you might imagine. Writing in the 13th century, St. Bonaventure emphasized the importance of the heart, of our emotions and our desires. He prized love and relationality – starting with the relationships among the three Persons of the Trinity, that God is both a unity and a multiplicity. He also emphasized the faculty of memory in addition to the intellect and the will as part of his tripartite model of soul, which opens the door to the modern concept of the unconscious, with parts existing outside of our awareness. Join Dr. Gerry Crete, Dr. Christian Amalu, and Dr. Peter Malinoski as we “nerd out” on St. Bonaventure, connecting him back to St. Francis of Assisi, St. Maximus, and other Catholic experts on metaphysics in a way that’s accessible, conversational, inspirational, and fun.   For the full video experience with all of Dr. Gerry's expressive gestures, all our visuals, graphics, and for conversation and sharing in the comments section, check us out on our YouTube channel here:  www.youtube.com/@InteriorIntegration4Catholics

Join licensed therapist Jerry Crete and Dr. Christian Amalu as they dive into the timeless wisdom of St. Maximus the Confessor. They explore fascinating ideas like how we are microcosms reflecting the cosmos and the role of love in human transformation. Discover the connection between internal virtues and ascetic practices that can lead to genuine change. The discussion also touches on harmonizing modern therapy with Catholic tradition, making ancient insights relevant for today's challenges.

Dr. Gerry Crete, a licensed marriage and family therapist, and Dr. Christian Amalu, a postdoctoral fellow specializing in Internal Family Systems, dive into the profound insights of St. Augustine's *Confessions*. They explore Augustine's 'divided heart' and how it aligns with parts work, discussing the balance of intellect and heartfelt conversion. Listeners learn about the struggle with conflicting wills, transformative grief, and the importance of delight over duty in spiritual journeys. An experiential exercise invites reflection on one's restless parts, promoting integration and grace.

Dr. Gerry Crete, a licensed marriage and family therapist, and Dr. Christian Amalu, a postdoctoral fellow focused on trauma and attachment, delve into the Early Church Fathers and their insights into the human psyche. They explore St. Evagrius’ concept of the 'Christ-self' versus a 'legion of other selves' and discuss how allegory and metaphor illuminate our inner complexity. By connecting Greek and Hebrew philosophies, they highlight the Fathers as pioneers in integrating faith and psychology, offering practical prayer techniques for inner integration.

Peter Martin, a Nebraska psychologist and IFS therapist, Gerry Crete, a licensed marriage therapist and founder of Transfiguration Counseling, and Christian Amalu, a postdoctoral fellow in clinical psychology, engage in a deep conversation about harmonizing Internal Family Systems with Catholic teachings. They discuss how Scripture supports IFS concepts and the potential for inner harmony. They highlight the importance of self-love through Jesus’ parables and emphasize embracing complexity and marginalized voices in faith communities.

Join David Edwards, an IFS therapist and founder of St. Joseph Counseling, Bridget Adams, a trained IFS coach, and Marion Moreland, a level three certified IFS therapist, as they tackle the integration of Internal Family Systems therapy with Catholicism. They discuss the critical role of self-awareness in healing, the impact of legacy burdens, and the significance of compassion in personal growth. Tune in for insights on navigating emotional turmoil, enhancing prayer life, and embracing one's internal parts to foster genuine connections.

John David Edwards, an IFS therapist and founder of St. Joseph Counseling, dives into the complexities of internal systems and their connection to our identities as Catholics. He discusses how understanding our internal parts and their relationships can foster personal growth and love. Using analogies from jazz bands and rowing teams, he emphasizes collaboration and trust in relationships, encouraging listeners to embrace imperfection and spontaneity for deeper connections. This insightful conversation illuminates the path to healing within ourselves and our communities.

In this discussion with Dr. Gerry Crete, a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of Transfiguration Counseling, listeners explore the complex nature of identity as a cohesive system. They delve into how understanding our interconnectedness can enhance our relationships with God, ourselves, and others. The conversation critiques modern individualism and reclaims the importance of belonging within communities, emphasizing communal spirituality through practices like baptism and Eucharist. Insights into internal systems and their impact on external relationships are also highlighted.

In this insightful discussion, Marion Moreland, a chronic pain navigator and clinical counselor, joins Jennifer Maher, a certified traumatologist, to explore the profound mind-body connection. They reveal how our bodies retain memories of trauma that our minds may have forgotten. The duo shares personal healing journeys, emphasizing the importance of body awareness and self-acceptance. They also discuss the impact of maternal experiences on future generations and the transformative power of touch in overcoming trauma, offering listeners a path to listen to their bodies for deeper self-discovery.

Explore the six integrity needs crucial for holistic growth, from survival to mission. Discover how childhood experiences shape our sense of self-worth and agency. Delve into the intrinsic value of dignity and the impact of perfectionism. Unpack the challenges faced by Catholic leaders in maintaining personal integrity against societal pressures. Engage in experiential exercises that promote emotional awareness and authentic expression, helping you connect deeply with your inner self.