Benedictus Psychological Services

Flourish in freedom

The integration of therapy with Catholic anthropology involves grounding psychological practices in the understanding of the human person as created in the image and likeness of God, possessing inherent dignity, purpose, and a unique relationship with the Creator. This approach emphasizes a holistic look at humanity, considering the biological, psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions. By aligning therapeutic techniques with the Christian message of grace, love, forgiveness, reconciliation, and community, the healing processes can be enhanced while respecting the moral and ethical tenets of the faith, aiming to foster not only mental well-being but also spiritual growth and fulfillment in alignment with the Christian message.

“You were made for greatness.”

—Benedict XVI

Services Offered at Benedictus

Counseling

At Benedictus Psychological Services, you can expect to receive evidence-based treatment integrated with the Catholic-Christian approach to understanding the human person. The theraputic modality and approach can vary from person to person, but sessions are generally 50-60 minutes each week following an initial 90 minute intake session. All therapy session are offered remotely by tele-behavioral health through an encrypted link sent to you in advance of each session.

Assessment

Psychological assessment instruments are valuable tools to assist clients and therapists in understanding nuances in psychological problems and providing direction for future treatment. At Benedictus, assessments can be used for individual treatment, vocational assessment, intelligence testing, ADHD assessment, personality testing, or for academic or school testing. Assessment services vary based on the need, but testing will generally take more than 60 minutes. The client will always receive feedback and synthesized results of their test scores. All assessment sessions at Benedictus are offered remotely by tele-behavioral health through an encrypted link sent in advance of the session.

Consultation

Consultation services at Benedictus can be varied depending on the needs and the desires of the client. Generally, consultation involves an interview process after which a representative of Benedictus will provide expertise, guidance, or support to another professional, organization, groups, or individuals regarding psychological issues or cases. This may involve discussing needs and assessment strategies, treatment plans, or interventions, and it often aims to enhance the overall efficacy of care, facilitate decision-making, and promote the well-being of clients, patients, groups, or larger organizations. These services may be offered remotely or in person.

Education

The science of behavioral health has expanded, and one way to promote the fruits of research and study is through psychological education to groups, businesses, schools, churches, or other organizations and communities. By integrating the principles of development and and behavioral sciences with the Catholic anthropology of the human person, we tailor learning experiences that cater to a wide variety of needs including workshops on 1) stress, worry and anxiety, 2) sadness, grief, and depression, 3) relationships, boundaries, and communication, and so many other topics. Educations services vary in cost and length depending on the needs of the client or organization. These services may be offered remotely on in person. Invest in psychological education to cultivate a positive environment to enhance flourishing.

About me

My name is Garrett Boyer. I am a clinical psychologist licensed in the state of Virginia with the authority to practice interjurisdictional telepsychology through PSYPACT. I am passionate about behavioral health, and I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with a wide range of symptoms and diagnoses including depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance abuse, sleep disorders, relationship problems, adjustment disorders, psychotic disorders, and personality disorders.

I was trained at Divine Mercy University - a Catholic graduate school for psychology that seeks to integrate the science of psychology with the Church’s anthropological view of the human person. As such, I work to incorporate time tested elements of the faith with the scientific approach to behavioral health. Additionally, I have extensive training as a psychologist with the military which provided me a solid foundation in utilization of evidence-based treatment interventions. I have training in cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and emotion focused therapy. Additionally, I have a lot of experience as a psychological assessor, consultant, and educator.

Regardless of your needs, I am confident we can collaboratively work together to help you flourish and develop into the person you desire to be.

Dr. Garrett Boyer

Why “Benedictus”?

Joseph Ratzinger was born in 1927. After his ordination to the priesthood in 1951, he spent the next decades of his life as a pastor, theologian, and bishop. His keen understanding of the human condition and eminent teachings on the truths of the faith made him stand out as a noteworthy intellectual figure in the Church. After having spent over 30 years in the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, he was elected as the pope in 2005 and took the name Benedict - a name that means “blessing” in Latin. Pope Benedict emphasized the importance of faith, reason, and the interplay between Catholic tradition and modern society. His theological reflections focused on the concept of God as love and the necessity of a personal relationship with Christ. He advocated for a return to foundational Christian values in a secular world, emphasizing the need for moral truths and the role of the Church in guiding individuals.

The thoughts of Pope Benedict XVI serve as a guide for the mission of Benedictus Psychological Services. The “T” in the logo is based off of the pectoral cross that was given to the bishops who met with Pope Benedict for the ad limina visit in 2011 and 2012. The original cross in in the Abbey of Saint Anselm in Rome. (See left).

Finally, on Pope Benedict’s coat of arms, you will see a small scallop shell at the bottom. The shell is an ancient symbol of Christianity and is often associated with the theme of a Christian on pilgrimage. The journey through life is a pilgrimage, and the shell - as well as what it represents - is featured prominently in Benedictus Psychological Services.

Let’s work together on your pilgrimage.

Call or email at anytime to discuss your needs and determine options to help you along the journey.

Garrett Boyer, Psy.D.

garrett.boyer@benedictuspsych.com

(701) 404-7872

Check out the Gospel Minded YouTube channel for weekly reflections on the Sunday Gospel readings that incorporate principles of psychology.

https://www.youtube.com/@dr.garrettboyer8710