Exploring Human Relationships and Mental Health Critiques

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: 

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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)

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