Writing a memoir is never an easy feat—especially when the story being told explores the deeply personal terrain of trauma, healing, and the reclamation of one’s agency. In this episode of the "Authors Who Lead" podcast, I sit down with Chelsey Valeri—licensed clinical social worker, trauma therapist, and debut memoirist—as she offers an honest glimpse into how she crafted her book, Healed Enough. Through our conversation, you'll get a multidimensional understanding of complex trauma—from both clinical and lived perspectives—and what it takes to turn such experiences into a story that resonates.

Timestamp:

00:00 Deciding to write a memoir
05:12 Complex PTSD not in DSM
07:08 Understanding trauma's impact on mental health
10:29 Discussing personal healing journey
14:45 Feeling vulnerable but understood
19:34 Writing during health challenges
21:29 Navigating a patriarchal society
26:06 Healing Foundation and trauma care
29:12 Editing process for publishing
33:12 Discussing book feedback and approach
37:18 Writing a clinician's hand guide
39:40 Challenges in trauma therapy training
43:36 Discussing a valuable trauma book

Full show notes

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