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Spending Time with Trauma: With Dr. MaryCatherine McDonald

M.K.

Dr. MaryCatherine McDonald is an author, research professor and life coach who focuses on the complexities and history of trauma. Throughout this full interview, we define and provide examples of how a traumatic experience can affect our spirits, dive deep into the science behind our brain and bodies survival instincts and offer comfort for those who have experienced PTSD. I open up and share my own PTSD story and talk about how EMDR has helped me heal. Our hope is that this conversation helps you see yourself within the science and shed any shame you may be holding onto. Releasing shame is how we heal.

If you want to explore more about Unbroken: The Trauma Response is Never Wrong, you can find additional information in the “Self-Help Books” section of this website!

Be Better 2026
Latest Episodes
  • On this episode of Be Better, we start exploring the complex world of trauma with the guidance of Dr. MaryCatherine McDonald. As the author of Unbroken: The Trauma Response Is Never Wrong, Dr. McDonald has the expertise we need to better understand our incredible biological trauma response.
  • On this episode of Be Better, we explore the intentional act of self-care with the help of Licensed Master Social Worker Deja Middlebrook. It’s essential we make the time to love ourselves in order to best show up for ourselves and others.
  • In this episode of Be Better, we explore anxiety with clinical support from Licensed Clinical Social Worker Carolyn Kirkwood and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Wayne Brown. We all aim to come together in solidarity around our worries.
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  • On this episode of "Be Better," we explore some mental health terminology with additional insight from Licensed Clinical Social Worker Carolyn Kirkwood. Better understanding the language can help you better understand the journey!
  • On this episode of Be Better, we spend some time with the term “shame” with Licensed Clinical Social Worker Wayne Brown and Licensed Mental Health Counselor Richard Tippett. We all deal with it, so let’s understand it better!
  • On this episode of Be Better, we dive deeper into the idea of self-acceptance with the help of Licensed Mental Health Counselor Richard Tippett. We are more than what we are going to therapy for!
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  • On this episode of Be Better, we speak with Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Krysta Mannion about celebrating Pride Month by accepting who you are!