As an author, speaker, scholar, and mom, Dr. Mary Ruth brings a unique perspective to her work. Integrating her faith into intellectual pursuits is natural and essential. Writing and speaking on faith and applied psychology have deepened her appreciation for the richness and complexity of human development. With four children, she draws on family experiences to enrich her academic insights and apply principles practically.
The Intersection of Faith and Psychology
Dr. Mary Ruth’s approach blends research, scripture, prayer, and practical parenting experience, merging theory with real-world application. She believes understanding human development concepts helps individuals internalize a deeper grasp of typical growth patterns. This enables parents and teachers to comprehend and respond more intentionally to various developmental stages.
Her experience as a contributor at SpiritualDirection.com and BlessedisShe.net has widened her audience in speaking on faith and psychology as she addresses issues common to women in all stages of life. In these settings, her goal is the same —to bridge the gap between academic research and the practical needs of those striving to live out their purpose in the real world.
If you’d like to discuss the possibility of having Dr. Mary Ruth speak at your event or to receive a media kit, tap the contact button, and let’s talk!
Upcoming Events
| Date | Location | Topic | Audience |
| Jan 2, 2026 | SEEK, Denver | Book Signing | FOCUS ministries |
| January 10-11, 2026 | St. Andrew’s Parish, Tempe | Book Signing | Public |
| January 27, 2026 | St. Patrick’s, Scottsdale | Rooted in Hope | Mom’s Ministry |
| February 3-4 | St. Mary Magdalena, Gilbert | Discernment of Spirits for Parents | Parish |
| February 7, 2026 | St. Stevens, Sun Lakes | Women of Faith | SOLD OUT |
| February 21, 2026 | St. Gabriel, Cave Creek | Growing in Grace | Parish Women |
| March 2-3, 2026 | St Gabriel, Cave Creek | Discerning God’s Voice | Parish Lenten Mission |
| March 20, 2026 | St. Andrew’s Parish | Discernment of Spirits for Parents | Public |
| April, 2026 | St Timothy’s, Mesa | Discernment of Spirits | Parish Women |
| May 16, 2026 | Apple Valley, CA | Daughters of God | Catholic Daughters of the Americas |
| June 25-28, 2026 | CAU Washington, DC | Daughters of God | Military Council of Catholic Women |
| July 23-25 | Fully On-Line | Spiritual Warfare & the Family, Avila Summit | Register Here |
| July 27-30, 2026 | Milaca, Minnesota | Concilium Dei Discernment Retreat | Youth 13-25 |
| September 9, 2026 | Tempe, AZ | Rooted in Hope | Public |
| October 10, 2026 | Springfield, Il | Called and Courageous Women’s Conference | Diocese of Springfield |
Signature Topics
Abound with Hope. Feeling hopeless? Join me as I delve into what hope truly is, what it is not, the role of emotional resilience, and why hope forms the foundation of our faith.
Beloved Daughter of the Father. A woman’s discovery of God’s original design for her life, to be in a relationship of love as His daughter forever, is a truth that will set her radically free to live the fullest life possible, a life of integrity, authenticity, fulfillment, hope, trust, and joy. One or two talk events are possible.
Meeting at the Well. A three-talk retreat that brings together faith and science as we learn to accept the Lord’s invitation for a life of greater intimacy and hope. This retreat allows time in our weekend for quiet reflection, adoration, mass, and small group discussions as we open ourselves to grow in receptivity to God’s abundant grace.
A Life Filled with Grace. Do you want a life filled with grace, but it is hard to live that life in practice? What holds you back from a deeper, more fulfilled life as God’s Beloved? One or two talk sessions are available.
Equally Yoked. What does it mean to enter into a relationship equally yoked? What is necessary and realistic to expect spiritually in a sacramental marriage? Pulling from the social sciences, together we unpack some common myths and misconceptions that may be keeping you from thriving in your relationships.
Specific to Parenting and Youth
Raising Screen-Smart Kids: Navigating Social Media and Phone Use in the Digital Age. Feeling overwhelmed by the constant battle over screens? Does it even matter? There are real consequences for excessive or early screen time in terms of loneliness, mental health & addiction. Learn how to mitigate the negative effects of this new digital age.
Emotional Resilience. How can we handle our children’s emotions and help them process feelings in the best way possible to prevent apathy or emotional overload?
Moral Development. We all want our children to behave, but if we want them to develop a moral compass, we need to parent differently. Learn what works best!
Transmitting the Faith. Specifically geared to parents of adolescents, this talk discusses how parents of tweens and teens should approach faith in the home in order to give the best chance of transmitting the faith across generations.
The Kerygma for Kids. How do children’s concepts of faith form? How can we proclaim the Gospel in a way that fosters deep roots in our children’s hearts?
Discerning Spirits: Truth, Lies, and the Battle for Your Soul. Not every thought or feeling comes from you — so who’s really speaking? Together we uncover how angels, demons, and God interact with your daily life, and how you can tell the difference between what’s true, what’s false, and what’s pulling you off course. Discover how to recognize the subtle voices that influence their thoughts, choices, and direction, and how to respond with clarity, courage, and faith.
Dr. Mary Ruth Hackett is a fully vetted member of the Catholic Speakers Organization.