Paula D'Arcy is an author, retreat leader, speaker, playwright, and former psychotherapist. In 2001, she established Red Bird Foundation, which supports the growth and spiritual development of those in need throughout the world. The foundation has twice sponsored WOMENSPEAK, an international conference that honors the woman's voice as a force of peace and healing for the world.

D'Arcy survived the loss of her husband and young daughter in an accident in 1975. She was three months pregnant at the time. Among her bestselling books are Gift of the Red Bird, Waking Up to This Day, and the award-winning Stars at Night. D'Arcy serves as an adjunct faculty member of the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, Texas.

She has one daughter and lives in Texas.