About Us

Excerpts from an Interview with our Founder - Rebecca Brubaker

Why did you found the Elijah Institute?

I founded the Elijah Institute out of a very personal place. As an adoptive mom to three beautiful children who experienced early trauma, I saw firsthand the need for mental health support that could also speak to the spiritual dimension of their pain and healing. Over time, I met many Catholic therapists who were longing for formation that could help them integrate their faith with the science of psychotherapy. The Elijah Institute was born to meet that need.

3. How does the Elijah Institute blend Catholic spirituality with proven methods of Psychotherapy?

We use what’s called a “whole-person” approach—drawing from evidence-based psychological practices while deeply respecting the truths of Catholic anthropology. That means we see each person not just as a set of symptoms, but as someone created in the image of God, with dignity, purpose, and a spiritual life. Our training helps clinicians understand when and how to integrate things like prayer, sacraments, moral formation, and the wisdom of the saints into the therapeutic process, while still maintaining clinical excellence.

4. How many Catholics struggle with mental health issues?

We know that about 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experience mental health challenges each year—and Catholics are no exception to that. In fact, many Catholics are quietly carrying the weight of depression, anxiety, trauma, or moral injury, unsure of where to turn for help that understands both their faith and their psychological needs. That’s why we’re here—to help close that gap.

5. How does the Elijah Institute train mental health professionals in an authentically Catholic way? What methods do you use?

We offer a multi-level training program that includes online courses, small interactive cohorts, and practical case-based learning. Our methods are rooted in Catholic teaching, especially on the dignity of the human person and the importance of grace, but we also incorporate developmental psychology, trauma-informed care, and ethical clinical decision-making. We emphasize discernment, prayer, and humility alongside professional competencies. It’s formation of the head, heart, and hands.

6. Who are the instructors that work with the Institute?

We’re blessed to have an incredible faculty. Our instructors include licensed psychologists, theologians, trauma specialists, and even seminary professors. Many have experience working in Catholic healthcare or with religious communities, and all are deeply committed to the Church. Some of our most well-known contributors include Dr. Tom Plante from Stanford, Dr. Anthony Isacco of St. Mary's Minneapolis, Dr. Julia Sadusky, Dr. Gerry Crete, and Dr. Len Sperry, who’s done pioneering work in spiritually integrated care.

7. Where can our listeners go to learn more about the Elijah Institute? Is there anything else you’d like our listeners to know about what you do?

You can find us online at www.ElijahInstitute.org. We have information there for mental health professionals, donors, and even Catholic organizations looking to partner with us. And I’d just say this: whether you’re a therapist, a pastor, or someone seeking healing yourself, you’re not alone. There is a growing community that believes faith and mental health can work together—and we’re here to support you in that journey.

8. Final Thoughts?

Just a word of encouragement. The world is hurting in so many ways, but Christ has not abandoned us. Healing is possible, and grace builds upon nature. If we can form more Catholic clinicians who are both faithful and excellent, we can be part of God’s answer to some of the deepest wounds of our time. Thank you for helping us share that hope today!

Describe the mission of your organization.