Start here.

  • Give yourself permission to acknowledge what you are going through. Whether you’re feeling grateful or stressed, try to accept where you are and recognize that your feelings are valid.
  • Focus on what you need at this moment.
    • Do you need rest? How have you been sleeping?
    • When was the last time you had something to eat or drink?
    • Do you feel safe?
  • Inhale. Exhale. Take deep breaths, this can help slow down your heart rate and breathing rate, signaling your nervous system to calm down.
  • Take time to quiet your soul. You can Pray. Sit in silence with God. Visit the Adoration Chapel.
  • Listen to music. What is your favorite song?
  • Get up and stretch. Go for a walk or hike. Physical movement helps reduce stress.
  • Stop and smell the roses (or any flower) and ponder the beauty of God’s creation.
  • Write your thoughts down. Bring to mind 5 things you are grateful for.
  • Stay connected. Talk with family, friends, or someone you trust.
  • If you are experiencing a substance use challenge and need help, you can call Banner Health System at 1 (800) 254-HELP.
  • If you want to talk or text someone about how you have been feeling or thinking, especially if those thoughts have been about hurting yourself, you can call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 any time. Asking for help is a strength.

I would like to find a counselor or therapist. What are some things I should consider?

Ask friends, family, and your church community to see if they have someone they would recommend. Choosing the right person is important, much like you would choose a doctor. What should you look for?

  • Do I need to see a Catholic counselor or therapist? No, but it is important that they have a Christian anthropology.
  • Review the websites of the counselors or therapists. This will give you information about insurance, fees, and if they are taking new clients. If in doubt, call them.
  • You can interview the therapist you would like to go to. Take some time before your first appointment to write down some questions you may have, especially if it is your first-time seeking therapy.
  • Review for licensing and any complaints they may have. You can research information on the following websites:

Marital Health

  • As a couple, spend at least an hour per week talking about the business of life
  • Plan date nights! Don’t wait for a crisis to develop.
  • Seek relationship counseling if communication is difficult as a couple. Attend a Marriage Encounter or Retrouvaille retreat.

Domestic Violence

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Restore Dignity

Restore Dignity is a Phoenix-based nonprofit healing ministry focused on providing survivors of traumatic events support and tools to heal and understand the fullness of dignity they possess in Christ in which each person was created. Our primary focus is two Grief to Grace retreats each year.
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Emmaus Ministry for Grieving Parents

The mission of The Emmaus Ministry for Grieving Parents, in the Catholic, Franciscan tradition of “All are Welcome,” is to serve the spiritual needs of grieving parents whose children of any age have died by any cause. It is also to help interested parents, as well as Clergy, Religious, Diocesan Staff, and/or Spiritual Directors bring this ministry to their own parishes or regions.
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Catholic Charities Community Services

A major social service agency of the Diocese of Phoenix. Their mission of service is founded in Scripture: Jesus called upon his disciples to feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, care for the sick, welcome the stranger, and minister to the imprisoned. 
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CASA VETERANS MINISTRY Connecting. Serving. Healing

Provides a safe place where service members, veterans & their families join in community to find healing from their wounds of service. The Casa Veterans Ministry (CVM) envisions a vibrant ecumenical program that embraces and supports all service members, veterans and their families- regardless of separation status and faith background- who seek healing from their emotional and spiritual wounds of military experience.
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Grief to Grace Retreats

Grief to Grace: Healing the Wounds of Abuse is a psychological and spiritual program for anyone who has suffered degradation or violation through physical, emotional, sexual, or spiritual abuse. It is appropriate for those who have endured sexual abuse, rape, incest, neglect, or other forms of traumatic violation in childhood, adolescence, or as an adult.
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Prayer Shawl Ministry

The Prayer Shawl Ministry began on February 2008 at Holy Spirit Parish in Tempe, AZ and continues to grow. These shawls are knitted or crocheted with love and prayers and given to those who are suffering whether it be from a recent loss, illness, etc. If you would like to become a part of this prayerful ministry or know of someone in need of peace and comfort in their life please contact Holy Spirit Parish at (480) 838-7474.
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Foundation for Senior Living

A faith-based charity that recognize and nurture the unique capabilities and achievements of all clients and FSL members.
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