About Us

A diocese cannot predict when a complaint may be filed, how many complaints may occur at the same time, or what type of complaint it might be. For this reason, even the best prepared Intake Officer, Disciplinary Board, Canon, or Bishop could benefit from regular training and discussion of best practices for handling complaints under Title IV.

The Rev. Dr. Cathy Deats

The Rev. Dr. Cathy Deats has more than 25 years’ experience, both as a layperson and clergyperson, in consultation with bishops and dioceses in Title IV complaint matters. Collaborating with church attorneys, she has developed a training module for the Disciplinary Canon, Title IV, as well as an Orientation for Intake Officers.</The Rev. Dr. Cathy Deats has more than 25 years’ experience, both as a layperson and clergyperson, in consultation with bishops and dioceses in Title IV complaint matters. Collaborating with church attorneys, she has developed a training module for the Disciplinary Canon, Title IV, as well as an Orientation for Intake Officers.>

Title IV work can also be stressful emotional work. Dr. Deats is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience in individual and group psychotherapy. Her clinical skills are a unique benefit in this work, both for investigation and for building your Title IV response team.

The “Sweet Science”

Cathy began her amateur boxing training in Dover, NJ, when she found that in an effort to find a way to manage the stress of her vocation, she discovered the “sweet science” of boxing rather than simply a release of frustration. She began her training with Coach Ed Leahy, USA boxing coach and former professional fighter. He did admit she was the first priest he had ever trained.

While with Dover Boxing Club, she had one bout (which she won by default), and her record remains 1 – 0. Since moving to North Carolina, Cathy has trained with Coach Remy Fulwood of Jawbreaker Boxing in Raleigh. She calls him “Boss,” although we know who her real Boss is!