The Catholic Couch
The Catholic Couch is the official podcast of the Catholic Counseling Institute, where Catholic faith and psychological science meet real life. Hosted by licensed Catholic therapist Amber Pilkington, this podcast explores the intersection of theology, mental health, and human relationships.
Each episode offers practical tools, grounded in Church teaching and peer-reviewed research, on topics like marriage, boundaries, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, parenting, trauma, forgiveness, and healing.
This is not therapy. This is faithful, formative support—so you can grow in clarity, peace, and purpose.
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The Catholic Couch
The Catholic Church Has A Mental Health Problem: Pope Leo XIV Responds
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE PRAYER CARD HERE: https://catholic-counseling-institute-2.kit.com/f5ff865d5a
In this powerful episode of The Catholic Couch, Catholic therapist Amber Pilkington responds to Pope Leo XIV’s June prayer intention—calling the global Church to compassion for those suffering with mental and emotional illness.
For too long, mental health has been taboo in Catholic circles. But now, the silence is breaking. Pope Leo’s bold prayer offers more than awareness—it offers hope, healing, and a sacred mission.
🎙️ In this episode:
What Pope Leo XIV actually said—and why it matters so deeply
Why so many Catholic women feel unseen in their mental health struggles
The theology of consolation and the Sacred Heart
The role of comparison, silence, and emotional disconnection
What you can do (even in small ways) to live out this call to compassion
Whether you’ve struggled with anxiety, depression, postpartum, trauma, or burnout—or you love someone who does—this conversation will comfort, validate, and empower you.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data Summary & Trends Report: 2011–2021. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
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Gustafson, H. T., Kheriaty, A., et al. (2023). Movement behaviors and mental health of Catholic priests in the Eastern United States. Journal of Religion and Health.
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Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2022). 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Detailed Tables. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Vogel, E. A., Rose, J. P., Roberts, L. R., & Eckles, K. (2014). Social comparison, social media, and self-esteem. Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 33(3), 244–274.
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional counseling, spiritual direction, or medical advice. While I’m a licensed Catholic therapist, I am not your therapist—and listening to this podcast does not create a therapeutic relationship.If you’re experiencing significant distress, please reach out to a licensed mental health provider in your area, your parish priest, or a trusted support resource. If you're in crisis, contact 988 or your local emergency services.The Catholic Counseling Institute exists to support women with resources that integrate faith and psychological insight. We’re here to walk with you, but we are not a crisis line or emergency care provider.