A conversation with MaryCatherine McDonald, PhD, on the relationship between joy, trauma, and the nervous system — and why healing isn't about pushing past pain, but about making joy feel safe again.  

We cover: 

• Why the trauma response is never wrong, and how shame blocks healing
• Why joy can feel unsafe or inaccessible after trauma
• The six "joy thieves" that quietly steal joy from daily life
• How joy helps regulate the nervous system, restoring safety and connection
• What to do when even a tiny joy practice feels fake or uncomfortable
• Why joy work is a real healing practice, not toxic positivity

MaryCatherine McDonald is a research professor and life coach who specializes in the psychology and philosophy of trauma.

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