In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore the emotion of hate—what it is, why it’s so powerful, and how faith invites us to respond differently. We draw on insights from psychology and faith, reflecting on the call to love our enemies and practices of love, proximity, and empathy that can help us resist hate’s pull. Together, we ask what it means to move from distance toward connection and to keep our hearts open, even when it’s hard.

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore the emotion of shame—what it is, how it shows up in our relationships and faith, and why it can feel so overwhelming. We reflect on insights from shame research, consider some stories, and talk about how empathy is the antidote to shame. Together, we learn that we don’t heal from shame alone—we heal in connection.

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore the many layers of love — what it is, how we experience it, and why it matters. Together, we reflect to better understand love as both an emotion and a spiritual force. Join us as we lean into vulnerability, connection, and the kind of love that can transform our lives from the inside out.

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore the painful and complex emotion of betrayal. We talk about what happens when trust is broken—by others, by institutions, or even by ourselves—and how betrayal often brings a flood of other emotions with it. We also reflect on what healing can look like. Join us for another episode of Open Heart Therapy!

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore the difference between authentic pride and hubris. We reflect on how celebrating our efforts can be healthy and connected. Join us as we grow together and learn about emotions and faith in another episode!

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore what it means to practice contentment. We look at a definition, the difference between high-arousal novelty and low-arousal satisfaction, and how comparison can erode sense of satisfaction. We reflect on gratitude and learning to relish what we already have.

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore the strange and powerful world of irony—how it shows up in our communication, how it can connect or divide us, and why it often masks what we’re really feeling. We reflect on sarcasm, emotional defenses, and the invitation from faith to speak with honesty. Please DON'T join us for another episode of Open Heart Therapy!

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore the theme of tranquility—the deep rest that comes when we’re free from pressure and demands. We reflect on how we are designed for rhythms of restoration and how we can build tranquility into our daily lives. Let’s breathe, slow down, and rediscover the gift of rest together!