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!

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore the roots of defensiveness—how it often stems from a fragile ego and the fear that our mistakes diminish our worth. We reflect on how defensiveness blocks connection, feedback, and growth, and how faith can anchor us in love even when we feel exposed. Together, we practice noticing our reactions, softening our hearts, and choosing curiosity over self-protection.

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore the psychology and spirituality of dehumanization—why we do it, how it harms us, and what faith says about resisting it. We reflect on how labeling others as "less than" allows us to justify harm, and how reclaiming the humanity in everyone can be an act of both healing and courage. Join us as we challenge ourselves to stay open-hearted in a world that often divides.

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore the emotional and spiritual tension of paradox—those moments when two seemingly opposing truths ask to be held together. We reflect on how paradox stirs vulnerability, invites growth, and mirrors God’s own nature. We unpack how living in the “both/and” can deepen our faith and emotional maturity.

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore the idea of foreboding joy — that vulnerable feeling when joy stirs up fear. We talk about how fear can keep us from fully receiving the good gifts in our lives, and how gratitude can help us lean into joy with open hearts. Join us for another episode of Open Heart Therapy!

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore freudenfreude—the joy we feel when others experience joy. Last time, we talked about schadenfreude, but today we flip the script and dive into how celebrating others can deepen our relationships, nourish our faith, and multiply joy.

In this episode of Open Heart Therapy, we explore the uncomfortable but very human emotion of schadenfreude—the pleasure we sometimes feel at someone else's misfortune. We reflect on how this feeling shows up in everyday life and why it can be harmful to our empathy. Together, we ask: What kind of world are we building—and what kind of hearts are we shaping—when we take joy in another’s pain?