The Ruth Institute Podcast

In this conversation, Dr. Joseph Nicolosi Jr. discusses the complexities surrounding same-sex attraction, the implications of conversion therapy laws, and the scientific basis for understanding sexual orientation. He emphasizes the importance of client self-determination in therapy and presents evidence that sexual attractions can change through techniques like memory reconsolidation. The discussion also touches on the role of childhood experiences, attachment theory, and the intersection of spirituality and therapy. Dr. Nicolosi advocates for a more open therapeutic community that respects diverse viewpoints and encourages parents to be vigilant about the therapists they choose for their children. Dr. Joseph Nicolosi, Jr. is a licensed clinical psychologist, researcher, and founder of the Reintegrative Therapy Association. He trains therapists in evidence-based methods for resolving trauma, addiction, and unwanted same-sex attractions. A sought-after international speaker, Dr. Nicolosi, Jr presents on the topic of sexual attractions and the latest scientific findings in the field. Grounded in scientific research, he advocates for client self-determination in therapy, empowering people to live consistently with their deeply held values. Action Items: • FOR THERAPISTS: Consider receiving training to offer this important care, especially in light of a decision from the Supreme Court expected in the summer. • FOR ADVOCATES/ORGANIZATIONS: Check out the latest science and videos to know the truth to battle the ideologies. • Training and Science can be found at ReintegrativeTherapy.com • Follow Dr. Nicolosi, Jr on X: @DoctorNicolosi Videos | Reintegrative Therapy: https://www.reintegrativetherapy.com/videos/ Reintegrative Therapy® Evidence-Based Treatment Interventions: https://www.reintegrativetherapy.com/ Reintegrative Therapy® (@Reintegrative_) / X: https://x.com/Reintegrative_ Joseph Nicolosi Jr., Ph.D. (@DoctorNicolosi) / X: https://x.com/DoctorNicolosi Father Sullins: https://youtu.be/Fgo82Jrg5Ik https://youtu.be/9ckNnxbUbfA https://youtu.be/zVZOOMnT1cA 00:00 Introduction to Conversion Therapy Laws 04:26 The Charles v. Salazar Case 07:05 Research and Therapy Techniques 07:56 Memory Reconsolidation Explained 09:19 Managing Emotions vs. Memory Rewriting 11:53 The Impact of Ideology on Therapy 14:58 Understanding Same-Sex Attraction 18:04 Attachment Theory and Its Implications 20:58 Intergenerational Patterns of Attachment 23:56 The HHS Report and Transgender Issues 31:11 Therapy and Same-Sex Attraction 34:25 Research on Sexual Attraction 36:52 Addressing Childhood Sexual Abuse 41:26 Unpacking Guilt and Shame 44:44 Spirituality and Therapy 48:32 Trauma and Shifting Attractions 54:58 Early Sexualization of Children 57:04 State of the Therapeutic Community 01:03:18 Guidance for Parents 01:05:06 Call for Research and Support Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Have a question or a comment? Leave it in the comments, and we'll get back to you! Watch the full episode, uncensored, on Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/Theruthinstitute Subscribe to our YouTube playlist: @RuthInstitute Follow us on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/theruthinstitute https://twitter.com/RuthInstitute https://www.facebook.com/TheRuthInstitute/ https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/newsfeed Press: NC Register: https://www.ncregister.com/author/jennifer-roback-morse Catholic Answers: https://www.catholic.com/profile/jennifer-roback-morse The Stream: https://stream.org/author/jennifer-roback-morse/ Crisis Magazine: https://crisismagazine.com/author/jennifer-roeback-morse Father Sullins' Reports on Clergy Sexual Abuse: https://ruthinstitute.org/resource-centers/father-sullins-research/ Buy Dr. Morse's Books: The Sexual State: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/the-sexual-state-2/ Love and Economics: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/love-and-economics-it-takes-a-family-to-raise-a-village/ Smart Sex: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/smart-sex-finding-life-long-love-in-a-hook-up-world/ 101 Tips for a Happier Marriage: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-a-happier-marriage/ 101 Tips for Marrying the Right Person: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-marrying-the-right-person/ Listen to our podcast: Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ruth-institute-podcast/id309797947 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1t7mWLRHjrCqNjsbH7zXv1 Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Get the full interview by joining us for exclusive, uncensored content on Locals: https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/support

This interview explores the deep connection between childhood trauma and the rise in transgender identification among young people. Dr. Jennifer Bauwens, a clinical social worker specializing in trauma, joins the conversation to explain how unresolved wounds, disrupted attachments, and cultural messaging influence identity formation. Drawing on clinical experience, research, and real-life stories—including the journey of Walt Heyer—she sheds light on why compassion, truth, and proper psychological care are essential for true healing. Dr. Jennifer Bauwens is the Director of the Center for Family Studies at Family Research Council. She researches and advocates for policies that will best serve the health and well-being of families and communities. Jennifer earned her Ph.D. from New York University with an emphasis in trauma studies. She has worked extensively as a clinician providing trauma-focused treatment to children in foster- care and behavioral health settings and to adults who've experienced interpersonal traumas, such as sexual abuse and assault. Her scholarship and publications have focused on the effects of psychological trauma, including man-made and natural disasters. Additionally, Jennifer has taught on psychological trauma and research methods in several graduate programs, including Rutgers University and Princeton Seminary. https://embracethedesign.com/ Jennifer Bauwens' Book: https://a.co/d/9yLRZy0 Walt Heyer Interviews: https://youtu.be/07_JatfRsss https://youtu.be/0qZpwPtVNcA https://youtu.be/6K7QgYOKThw 00:00 Understanding Gender Confusion and Its Roots 03:26 Walt Heyer's Journey: From Trauma to Transformation 07:04 The Clinical Perspective on Gender Affirming Care 23:40 Comparing Experiences: Abuse Survivors and Transgender Individuals 30:54 The Impact of Family Dynamics on Identity 37:01 The Influence of Social Factors on Gender Identity 42:46 Navigating the Complexities of Gender Dysphoria 43:33 Understanding the Trans Movement and Social Contagion 47:18 The Importance of Attachment in Development 52:51 Exploring Attachment Theory and Its Implications 01:03:27 Connecting Attachment Issues to Gender Identity 01:10:51 The Role of Family and History in Identity Formation 01:22:42 Practical Guidance for Supporting Individuals in Transition 01:29:12 Real Estate Commercial Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Have a question or a comment? Leave it in the comments, and we'll get back to you! Watch the full episode, uncensored, on Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/Theruthinstitute Subscribe to our YouTube playlist: @RuthInstitute Follow us on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/theruthinstitute https://twitter.com/RuthInstitute https://www.facebook.com/TheRuthInstitute/ https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/newsfeed Press: NC Register: https://www.ncregister.com/author/jennifer-roback-morse Catholic Answers: https://www.catholic.com/profile/jennifer-roback-morse The Stream: https://stream.org/author/jennifer-roback-morse/ Crisis Magazine: https://crisismagazine.com/author/jennifer-roeback-morse Father Sullins' Reports on Clergy Sexual Abuse: https://ruthinstitute.org/resource-centers/father-sullins-research/ Buy Dr. Morse's Books: The Sexual State: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/the-sexual-state-2/ Love and Economics: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/love-and-economics-it-takes-a-family-to-raise-a-village/ Smart Sex: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/smart-sex-finding-life-long-love-in-a-hook-up-world/ 101 Tips for a Happier Marriage: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-a-happier-marriage/ 101 Tips for Marrying the Right Person: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-marrying-the-right-person/ Listen to our podcast: Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ruth-institute-podcast/id309797947 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1t7mWLRHjrCqNjsbH7zXv1 Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Get the full interview by joining us for exclusive, uncensored content on Locals: https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/support

We look at the hidden emotional and spiritual challenges of infertility and how Springs in the Desert accompanies couples carrying this cross. The guests share the ministry's origins, the grief and identity struggles many couples face, the different ways men and women process infertility, and the need for compassionate pastoral care. They also explain how community, faith, and a focus on Christ—not just conception—help couples find hope, healing, and a sense of fruitfulness in their marriages. Ann M. Koshute, MTS, is co-founder and Executive Director of Springs in the Desert, a Catholic ministry offering spiritual and emotional support to women and couples carrying the cross of infertility and loss. A graduate of the Pontifical John Paul II Institute, she and her husband Keith are Byzantine Catholics living in Central Pennsylvania. Ann speaks at conferences and retreats, contributes regularly to Eastern Catholic Life, and has written for Ascension Press's Catechism in a Year Companion and daily Scripture reflections; in 2021 she was appointed to the USCCB's Advisory Council. Fr. Paul Varchola West, Spiritual Father for Springs in the Desert, was ordained a Byzantine Catholic priest in 2020 and serves as pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Levittown, Pennsylvania. A columnist for Eastern Catholic Life, he was appointed Director of Deacons for the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic in 2025. He and his wife Alissa, married in 2009, enjoy music, the outdoors, and life with their two children—blessings that came after many years of prayers and infertility treatments. http://www.springsinthedesert.org Facebook: @Springs in the Desert Instagram: @springsinthedesert_ ​The Springs in the Desert Podcast: https://springsinthedesert.org/podcast/ 00:00 Introduction to Springs in the Desert 05:24 The Journey of Infertility and Founding the Ministry 08:33 Understanding Byzantine Catholicism and Spiritual Leadership 11:22 The Role of Spiritual Support in Infertility 14:11 Navigating Medical and Spiritual Aspects of Infertility 17:16 The Emotional Landscape of Infertility 20:23 Programs and Resources Offered by Springs in the Desert 23:25 The Importance of Community and Shared Experiences 26:30 Addressing Grief and Loss in Infertility 29:19 The Unique Perspectives of Men and Women in Infertility 32:46 Navigating Emotional Responses in Marriage 38:56 The Role of the Church in Supporting Infertility 49:51 Addressing Pregnancy Loss and Grief 54:24 Understanding Identity Beyond Infertility 01:02:01 The Temptation of Objectification in Relationships 01:04:54 The Struggle with Self-Absorption and Spirituality 01:08:37 The Urgency of Infertility Ministry Today 01:11:53 Changing the Conversation Around Infertility 01:16:33 Normalizing Infertility in Young Education 01:21:58 The Importance of Connection and Community 01:25:18 Action Items for Supporting Couples Facing Infertility 01:35:23 Real Estate Commercial Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Have a question or a comment? Leave it in the comments, and we'll get back to you! Watch the full episode, uncensored, on Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/Theruthinstitute Subscribe to our YouTube playlist: @RuthInstitute Follow us on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/theruthinstitute https://twitter.com/RuthInstitute https://www.facebook.com/TheRuthInstitute/ https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/newsfeed Press: NC Register: https://www.ncregister.com/author/jennifer-roback-morse Catholic Answers: https://www.catholic.com/profile/jennifer-roback-morse The Stream: https://stream.org/author/jennifer-roback-morse/ Crisis Magazine: https://crisismagazine.com/author/jennifer-roeback-morse Father Sullins' Reports on Clergy Sexual Abuse: https://ruthinstitute.org/resource-centers/father-sullins-research/ Buy Dr. Morse's Books: The Sexual State: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/the-sexual-state-2/ Love and Economics: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/love-and-economics-it-takes-a-family-to-raise-a-village/ Smart Sex: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/smart-sex-finding-life-long-love-in-a-hook-up-world/ 101 Tips for a Happier Marriage: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-a-happier-marriage/ 101 Tips for Marrying the Right Person: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-marrying-the-right-person/ Listen to our podcast: Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ruth-institute-podcast/id309797947 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1t7mWLRHjrCqNjsbH7zXv1 Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Get the full interview by joining us for exclusive, uncensored content on Locals: https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/support

November 14th, 2025, Father Paul Sullins joins Teresa Tomeo on her show Catholic Connections to discuss "persistent emotional distress after abortion in the U.S.. He just had an article with some very solid research about post abortive healing, and how women are indeed pained by their abortions. It was recently published in a major health journal."

The discussion centers on recent debates surrounding sexuality, moral theology, and cultural attitudes toward truth. The speakers examine claims about sexual identity, the influence of ideological messaging, and the pressures—social, familial, and cultural—that shape people's beliefs. They argue that misunderstandings of science, theology, and human freedom contribute to widespread confusion about sexuality and moral behavior. They also explore how personal desires, fear of conflict, and resistance to moral obligations lead individuals to reject inconvenient truths. Topics include the interplay between autonomy, love, freedom, and truth; the impact of media and peer pressure; the contradictions within modern sexual ideologies; and the importance of grounded moral reasoning. The conversation concludes by emphasizing the need for clarity, compassion, and adherence to truth when discussing sexuality and human dignity. This is the last interview Dr. Morse shared with Father Rob Jack before his passing.