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187. Catholic Psychologist Explains Same-Sex Attraction Honestly with Dr. Julia Sadusky

Always Hope

What does faithfulness really look like for Catholics who experience same-sex attraction? In this episode of the Always Hope Podcast, Dr. Julia Sadusky, a Catholic psychologist, joins us for an honest, compassionate, and deeply grounded conversation about faith, psychology, and human desire. Rather than offering quick fixes or unrealistic promises, this discussion explores how Catholics can move beyond shame, confusion, and false expectations — and toward a more peaceful, integrated life. We talk about: * Why prayer isn’t a “fix” for every struggle — and why that doesn’t mean prayer has failed * What psychology actually says about same-sex attraction * The difference between acceptance and approval * Why chasing “change” can sometimes block real healing * How the Church quietly offers a much more hopeful vision than most people realize This conversation is especially for: * Catholics navigating same-sex attraction * Parents trying to support a loved one faithfully * Priests, therapists, and ministry leaders * Anyone tired of polarized or simplistic answers If you’ve ever felt caught between faith and lived experience, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and hope rooted in truth   Julia Sadusky (PsyD, Regent University) is an author, speaker, and licensed psychologist. She owns Lux Counseling and Consulting in Littleton, CO., where she offers individual, family, and couples therapy in addition to consultations for individuals and families around sexuality and gender. She also serves as a ministry educator, offering trainings and consultations to counseling centers and faith-based institutions on sexuality, gender identity, mental health, trauma-informed care, and the intersection of sexuality, gender, and theology. Other areas of focus include work with those experiencing complex trauma and eating disorders.  She can be reached at: https://www.juliasadusky.com Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:31 - Integrating Faith into Therapy 00:06:33 - Navigating Sexuality and Gender Issues 00:15:40 - Understanding and Accepting One's Own Story 00:16:19 - Addressing the Expectations and Misconceptions 00:27:44 - Exploring the Origins of Same-Sex Attraction 00:30:49 - Exploring the Causes and Impacts of Opposite-Sex Attraction 00:34:45 - The Role of Acceptance and Moving Forward 00:47:17 - Addressing Mental Health Concerns within Non-Heterosexual Population 00:53:44 - Closing Remarks and Contact Information Why I Don’t Do Reintegrative Therapy as a Catholic Therapist: https://youtu.be/_gZSRet4xR8?si=4fRS5EF327a9Uqho   ✉️ Sign Up for The Beacon Email Newsletter: www.drmariosacasa.com/newsletter-opt-in 🎧 Subscribe for more Catholic Christian dating advice, emotional health tools, and honest conversations about love, faith, and healing. Not sure how to start a conversation with a someone you find attractive? Download my free Dating Toolkit at www.drmariosacasa.com/dating-toolkit   To catch up on previous audio-only episodes click on the links below: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/always-hope/id1437447070 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1EfQGHAQLHkQcmHeWjlCJF?si=6e6199090a0b4f0c   Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more insights! www.youtube.com/@drmariosacasa   Follow me on the socials: Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drmariosacasa Facebook: www.facebook.com/drmariosacasa   Full Courses: Dating Well: www.drmariosacasa/datingwell Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: www.goodcatholic.com/product/overcoming-stress-and-anxiety/   The content of Always Hope is for purely educational reasons and is not meant as a substitute for proper diagnosis and/or professional counseling. If you need psychological or counseling services, please contact a trusted therapist for assistance.