We throw around the term "narcissist" and "narcissism" a lot these days, usually when we refer to someone who we believe has been incredibly selfish or self-centered in their interactions with us.

But what exactly is narcissism, especially as it presents in narcissistic personality disorder?

Since this month has been designated as Mental Health Awareness month,  I’ve decided to shine a light on various common mental health issues in the Being Human podcast episodes this month. This...

This month has been designated as Mental Health Awareness month.  During May, I’ve decided to shine a light on various common mental health issues in the upcoming Being Human podcast episodes.

But as we're focusing on bringing awareness to mental health, I think it's also a great time to introduce more of the amazing professionals who serve as CatholicPsych Institute clinicians and IDDM mentors in order to highlight those who are available to...

You probably already know by now that I have a weekly podcast called Being Human. In one of the recent episodes, I begin to venture into what some would consider dangerous territory these days. (The fact that this subject has become such a controversial issue is baffling.)

Cover image art: "St. Joseph and Baby Jesus" by Jason Jenicke. 

What's the first image that comes to your mind when you think about "masculinity"?

This will most likely differ drastically from person to person, and could range anywhere from images of suits, slick CEO's, and Don-Draper-types to beards, big trucks and Chuck Norris. 

In today's modern culture there seems to be a lot of conversation centered around what's been termed "toxic masculinity." This focus on what's considered...

I think it's safe to assume we all want to experience peace in our lives (and could probably use a little more of it these days).

Beyond wanting more peace, so many people have expressed to me their desire to tangibly feel loved by God - to be able to truly rest in His presence.

Our brains can make this so difficult, though! I'm sure you can relate to the following scenario: You go to prayer or attend Mass... after a little while though, you start thinking about the conversation you had with...

The month of March is designated in the U.S. as "Women's History Month" - a month-long celebration of the contributions and accomplishments of women.

Throughout her history, the Church has also celebrated the contributions  of many incredible, beautiful, passionate and holy women to our world. Coincidentally, it is during this month that we celebrate one of the greatest "accomplishments" by any woman ever. 

On March 25th, we celebrate a major feast day, the Solemnity of the...

"Stay quiet with God. Do not spend your time in useless chatter."
These wise words are from a sermon given by St. Charles Borromeo back in the 1500's, but I thought them a timely reminder for our present day.

There's definitely a lot of "chatter" in our modern lives - in the news, in social media, in our own heads. We're living through turbulent times, and all the change and uncertainty can amplify the "noise" of anxious ruminations, contributing to feelings of overwhelm.  

...

Note: For those of you who aren't married, hang in there with me - some of this info can apply to any relationship.

Living out the sacrament of marriage in a peaceful, prosperous time can be challenging.

Living out that same sacrament during a time of pandemic, social unrest and economic uncertainty? The level of difficulty gets ratcheted up a few notches.

So how is your marriage doing?

Has the stress of the past year impacted your relationship? Have you grown in intimacy & friendship...

Have you ever been in a conversation with someone, and while you're talking and sharing your opinion or thoughts, you can tell that they aren't really listening to you? They're jumping in at every little pause or opening, waiting to give advice or explain how you're wrong...

During emotionally charged conversations, maybe you've found yourself not listening and instead creating a case in your head for why the person you're conversing with is wrong (and noting all the...

Most people don't believe me when I say this, but it's true: I don't watch the news. So a couple weeks ago when my wife mentioned something about a "storming of the Capitol" I thought she was referring to a scene from one of the Hunger Games movies!

So much for the hope that 2021 would bring some peace and calm with it...

The world feels completely upside down these days - we've all been put through the ringer, and it's hard to know which way is "up." Our culture is in a lot of chaos and,...