Author & Writer
Award-winning, Internationally Known, Multi-genre
Dr. Michele DeMarco is an award-winning writer, author, and storyteller who knows that any story worth its weight in gold (or soul) has tension, conflict, even heartache. Stories mimic life–and the story of life, with all its triumphs and tragedies, defines Michele’s writing.
Michele's work has been published nationally and internationally. She is the author of Psychology Today blog "Soul Console: Healing From Moral Injury" and one of Medium's top writers for mental health and health. Select publications include...
Michele's Books
A Seminal Guide for Unburdening the Soul
Get the Book that Changed How We Think About Adversity
A Sample of Michele's Most Popular Articles
Featured Publications
Psychology Today
Science-backed, Soul-centered
Papers & Publications
Writing may be particularly beneficial for “soul wounds”
As a writer and researcher, I’m fascinated by the connection between writing (an act), healing (a process), and health (a state). So, when I began my study of moral trauma, I was curious how writing might help; it’s well documented that writing has curative effects. What’s less documented is that for some populations, writing about a traumatic experience can be anxiety-producing. My research presents embodied disclosure therapy (EDT), a new, therapeutic approach that was purposefully developed to overcome the challenges of expressive writing and other writing therapies that use fast-paced, explosive, “let-it-all-go” writing, causing agitation, rumination, overwhelm, or shut down in certain populations.
Published by ProQuest. Read More
Why is it so hard to forgive yourself?
Forgiveness has been the subject of considerable research. While most has centered on other-related forgiveness, less has focused on self-forgiveness. In my own work with moral injury, I have seen the persistent and insidious effects of unreconciled self-induced moral transgressions. Thus, my research presents an interdisciplinary, narrative-based healing writing process for self-forgiveness. The protocol draws upon theoretical literature, evidence-based psychological interventions, spiritual-oriented practices, creative arts, and somatic exercises for mental health counseling and spiritual ministration.
Published by Frontiers in Psychology. Read More
ANCHORS FOR WHOLE SOUL LIVING
Resources & Inspirations
If you or your loved one is struggling with a moral dilemma, trauma, or the loss of integrity or innocence and feel uncertain how to get on the path of healing and wholeness, let Michele show you the way.
Michele has created a number of resources that are anchors for “whole soul living.” They are her gift to you.
RESOURCES
Assessment
The Whole Soul Assessment
Here you can assess your moral strengths, level of resilience, and areas for growth. It's a great place to start the journey to principled and embodied living.
Inspirations
Downloads
A Collection of Art, Heart, and Soul
Need a spark of inspiration, grounding, or hope? I know I do. Enjoy these downloadable illustrated quote cards.
RESOURCES
Tips & Tricks
Real-Time Techniques for Anxiety and Despair
Stop trying to think your way out of in-the-moment stress or depression. These scientifically-backed practices really can help.
Inspirations
Inventory
Building Resilience
These building blocks make resilience possible. Learn how to make them a part of your life.
RESOURCES
Assessment
Do I Have Moral Injury or a Soul Wound?
Here is a quick self-assessment tool that can help you determine if your experiences, feelings, and behaviors may be related to moral injury.