In this episode, Dr. Gerry Crete explores parts theory through the fascinating lens of Marvel superheroes, The Lord of the Rings, Scripture, and the saints. A master at leading people into their interior life, Dr. Gerry leads an experiential activity to connect the dots between parts work and inner peace.

Discussed in this episode: 

• What parts theory is (parts work, IFS, Internal Family Systems, Ego State Therapy)
• How parts theory helps deepen our spiritual life
• Within each human person, there is a multiplicity
• Marvel’s “Avengers” movie as a portrayal of integration
• We relate to the characters in the “Avengers” movie because in them we see something of ourselves
• Parts work through the lens of The Lord of the Rings and the characters of Middle-earth
• A guided experiential activity to make parts work practical and personal
• What blending is and how unblending with parts gives access to our deep spiritual center
• Insights of parts work from the writings of the saints and from Scripture
• The sad reality that most people loathe themselves and how that limits love for others
• The goal in therapeutic work is to experience inner harmony (when our parts are unburdened and integrated)

Resources mentioned or relevant: 

• Litanies of the Heart: Relieving Post-Traumatic Stress and Calming Anxiety Through Healing our Parts by Dr. Gerry Crete
• Learn more about our Certification program: CatholicPsych Model of Applied Personalism
• CatholicPsych’s annual Summit of Integration
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Contact us! Have a topic or a question you would like Dr. Greg to address on the podcast? Want to give some feedback about this episode? Email us at beinghuman@catholicpsych.com - we would love to hear from you!

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