Essentially Soulful
Welcome to Essentially Soulful—a reflective podcast where psychospiritual insight meets real-life practice, and where lived experience is honored as much as formal training.
I’m DeeAnna Merz Nagel—psychotherapist, aromatherapist, coach and spiritual teacher. In this podcast, you’ll hear me in conversation with Betty—my AI co-host and thoughtful companion—who helps draw out the insights I’ve gathered over more than 25 years in the helping and healing arts.
These episodes are conversational and candid, blending past writings, teachings, case reflections, and personal narratives. I speak both professionally and personally—offering practical wisdom for therapists, coaches, healers, and anyone drawn to soulful service.
From intuitive practice and trauma-informed care to self-reflection, spiritual growth, and burnout recovery, Essentially Soulful is a space for listening deeply and living more consciously. One week, we might dive into Jungian archetypes or soul retrieval; the next, we’ll tackle everyday wellness topics — like the hidden hazards of synthetic fragrances or how to create a healthier home with aromatherapy.
🌀 Think of this podcast as food for thought, not a prescription pad—please seek professional guidance for your unique needs.
🌀 Please note: All case examples are fictionalized and created solely for training and education. Any resemblance to real individuals is purely coincidental.
Episodes average 10 minutes and include references to original published materials and other resources when applicable.
Essentially Soulful
Digital Personas: The Hidden Mirrors of Our Inner Selves
In this episode of Essentially Soulful, Betty and DeeAnna explore the fascinating world of our digital selves. From gaming avatars to social media profiles, we’re constantly crafting online representations — but what do these choices reveal about our inner lives?
Together, we discuss:
✨ How digital personas can act as mirrors of our unconscious
✨ The therapeutic potential (and risks) of exploring identity online
✨ Why multiple personas don’t equal inauthenticity — and can even support growth
✨ Practical steps to reflect on your own digital choices and what they may be telling you
Whether you’re a gamer, a social media user, or simply curious about the psychology of modern life, this conversation offers insights into how your digital expressions can become tools for self-awareness, integration, and healing.
Mental health professionals interested in gamer therapy or avatar therapy will find additional information below.
Resources:
These articles contain references and audio discussions of 2 distinct case studies:
Our Digital Personas and the Path to Inner Healing https://deeannamerznagel.com/digital-personas-inner-healing/
Virtual Alchemy and the Inner Child https://deeannamerznagel.com/avatar-as-portal-to-inner-healing/
Essential Soul Care® Academy
https://deeannamerznagel.com/essential-soul-care-academy/
