In this conversation, Michael John Cusick, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Restoring the Soul, shares his insights on healing trauma and forging sacred attachments with God. He explores the disconnect between belief and experience, especially in the context of spiritual exhaustion. Michael discusses how humility fosters a deeper connection with divine love and how integrating our brokenness can transform our faith. Personal stories and practical symbols highlight the journey from detachment to a more profound spiritual relationship.
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Michael Cusick's Formative Journey
Michael John Cusick's early life was marked by family alcoholism and trauma, shaping his counseling career. - His diagnosis on the autism spectrum revealed empathy as his superpower, contrary to stereotypes.
insights INSIGHT
Understanding the Delta in Faith
The "delta" represents the gap between belief and experience in faith. - Holding both brokenness and divine image tension fosters new spiritual growth.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Start Healing with Truth and Attention
Begin healing by honestly telling your story and acknowledging your wounds. - Pay close attention to your bodily sensations and emotions as acts of self-love and spiritual growth.
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The Body Keeps the Score
Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
Bessel van der Kolk
In this book, Dr. Bessel van der Kolk uses recent scientific advances to show how trauma reshapes both the body and brain, compromising sufferers’ capacities for pleasure, engagement, self-control, and trust. He explores various treatments, including neurofeedback, meditation, sports, drama, and yoga, which activate the brain’s natural neuroplasticity to aid in recovery. The book emphasizes the power of relationships in both causing and healing trauma and offers hope through descriptions of novel approaches to treatment. It is based on Dr. van der Kolk’s own research and that of other leading specialists in the field[1][2][5].
Landscapes of the Soul
Landscapes of the Soul
Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw
Jim Wilder
In 'Landscapes of the Soul', Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw explore the intersection of science, spirituality, and attachment theory. The book aims to provide readers with insights into their relationships with themselves, others, and God. By integrating psychological and scientific perspectives with faith and biblical teachings, the authors offer a holistic approach to understanding human connection. The central theme revolves around how attachment styles and early relational experiences shape one's spiritual journey. It encourages self-awareness and provides tools for developing healthier relationships and a more confident faith. This book is intended to guide readers towards healing and a deeper understanding of their relational patterns.
Sacred Attachment
Sacred Attachment
Michael John Cusick
What do you do when the gap between what you believe and what you experience feels insurmountable? Where do you turn when trauma leaves you feeling lost, ashamed, and exhausted, spinning spiritually, but still longing for a relationship with God?
In this episode of the Attaching to God podcast, Geoff Holsclaw talks with Michael John Cusick about themes from his new book, discussing the disconnect between belief and experience, particularly in the presence of trauma.
Attaching to God: Neuroscience-informed Spiritual Formation 