MaryCatherine McDonald, PhD

MaryCatherine (MC) McDonald, PhD, is a research professor and author specializing in trauma, stress, and resilience. With over a decade of experience researching and teaching the neuroscience and psychology of trauma, she is passionate about destigmatizing mental health and reframing trauma as a strength-based response.

Dr. McDonald earned her master’s degree at The New School, researching traumatic loss, and completed her PhD at Boston University. She has published extensively, including her latest book, Unbroken: The Trauma Response is Never Wrong (and other things you need to know to take back your life), released in 2023 by Sounds True.

In her thriving coaching practice, she has worked with combat veterans, survivors of sexual assault, individuals navigating career transitions, and more. Since 2010, she has also developed trauma-based curricula for nonprofits across the US.