New Catholic Therapy Program & Trust in Discernment (ft. Dr. Anthony Isacco)

Catholic psychology is growing, but many seminarians and formators still wrestle with how therapy fits into vocation and discernment. In this episode, licensed therapist Adam Cross is joined by Dr. Anthony Isacco, professor and program director at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota, to discuss the launch of a new Catholic clinical psychology program and the deeper role of trust in priestly formation.

Together, they explore how psychology, faith, and formation can come together to build healthier priests and more confident discerners. From confidentiality questions to obedience, from human formation to spiritual growth, this conversation sheds light on what’s often hidden behind seminary walls.

Topics covered:

• The rise of Catholic psychology programs and why they matter

• Online vs in-person training for Catholic therapists

• Human formation in seminary: why maturity, relationships, and self-knowledge are essential

• Confidentiality and transparency: how seminarians can approach therapy with trust

• Obedience and discernment: why trust is harder than celibacy for many seminarians

• The role of attachment and vulnerability in priestly formation

• How therapy can serve seminarians, priests, and the Church at large

Tune in for a candid, hopeful conversation about integrating Catholic faith with psychology, and how trust in therapy can shape healthier vocations and a stronger Church.

Have questions? Visit my website: adamcrossmft.com
Adam Cross LMFT #116623