FAITH IN THE TRENCHES

      Dr. Popcak shows how Catholic Pastoral counseling is related to but distinct from Spiritual Direction and crisis intervention. This approach not only differs from the various forms of secular counseling but it is also distinct from Protestant Pastoral counseling that is under girded with an entirely different theology.
      He explains how important it is to lay out tangible concrete goals that will help an individual know when he or she has “gotten better.” He stresses the need to define terms as quickly as possible. The entire approach is based on Catholic doctrine and the theology of the body. But the makes this approach concrete and utilizes many ways to assist individuals and families.
      In regards to marital counseling he develops the notion of “holy sex” and how the intimacy between man and wife is all-inclusive and sacramental.