Top 20 Best Books on Healing From Trauma

Are you looking for a book on healing from trauma that will provide comfort, guidance, and inspiration? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the 20 best healing from trauma books that offer a range of perspectives and approaches to help you navigate through the challenges of overcoming trauma. These books provide valuable insights, practical tools, and powerful stories that can support your healing journey. Whether you are seeking personal healing or looking to support someone else, these books are essential resources for anyone on the path to recovery. Let’s explore the transformative power of these healing from trauma books together!

20 Best Healing From Trauma Books

The Body Keeps the Score

by Bessel van der Kolk

The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk is a groundbreaking book on healing from trauma that explores the complex ways in which trauma affects the body and mind. Van der Kolk, a leading expert in the field of trauma and PTSD, draws on decades of research and clinical experience to provide a comprehensive understanding of how trauma impacts our physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

Through compelling case studies and personal anecdotes, the author illustrates the profound effects of trauma on the brain and body, as well as the potential for healing and recovery. Van der Kolk explores innovative therapeutic approaches, including yoga, EMDR, and neurofeedback, offering hope and practical guidance for individuals seeking to overcome the long-term effects of trauma.

This transformative book about healing from trauma is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the impact of trauma on the body and mind, and for those seeking effective strategies for healing and resilience.

The Deepest Well

by Nadine Burke Harris

The Deepest Well by Nadine Burke Harris is a groundbreaking book on healing from trauma that delves into the long-lasting effects of childhood adversity on physical and mental health. Dr. Burke Harris, a renowned pediatrician, explores the scientific research behind the impact of toxic stress on the developing brain and body, and offers valuable insights into how this adversity can lead to a wide range of health problems later in life. She also provides practical strategies for individuals and communities to address and mitigate the effects of childhood trauma, offering hope and resilience to those who have experienced it.

This book about healing from trauma is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the connection between early life experiences and adult health, and for those looking for ways to heal and overcome the effects of childhood adversity. The Deepest Well offers a compassionate and informative approach to addressing the impact of trauma, and provides valuable tools for individuals and communities to promote healing and resilience.

Trauma and Recovery

by Judith Herman

Trauma and Recovery by Judith Herman is a groundbreaking book on healing from trauma that examines the psychological and emotional impact of traumatic experiences. Drawing from years of research and clinical practice, Herman explores the complex nature of trauma and its effects on individuals, as well as the societal response to trauma survivors.

The book delves into the various forms of trauma, from interpersonal violence to political oppression, and offers a comprehensive understanding of how trauma shapes the lives of those who experience it. Herman also provides insights into the process of healing from trauma, offering a compassionate and empowering approach to recovery.

Through compelling case studies and insightful analysis, Trauma and Recovery offers a deep exploration of the human capacity for resilience and transformation in the face of profound suffering. This book about healing from trauma is an essential resource for anyone seeking to understand the impact of trauma and the path to recovery.

Waking the Tiger

by Peter A. Levine

Waking the Tiger by Peter A. Levine is a groundbreaking book on healing from trauma that offers a fresh perspective on the nature of trauma and its impact on the body and mind. Drawing on his extensive experience as a therapist and researcher, Levine explores the ways in which trauma can become trapped in the body, leading to a range of physical and psychological symptoms. Through compelling case studies and insightful analysis, he demonstrates how the body’s innate capacity for healing can be harnessed to release trauma and restore a sense of wholeness.

Levine’s approach to healing from trauma is both compassionate and empowering, offering readers practical tools and exercises to help them reconnect with their bodies and access their natural resilience. By integrating Eastern and Western perspectives on trauma and recovery, Waking the Tiger provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing the complex effects of trauma. This book about healing from trauma is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection and a path to renewed vitality.

The Complex PTSD Workbook

by Arielle Schwartz

The Complex PTSD Workbook by Arielle Schwartz is a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking healing from trauma. This book provides a deep understanding of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and offers practical exercises and techniques to support the healing journey. Dr. Schwartz combines her expertise as a psychologist and her own personal experience to create a supportive and empowering resource for those struggling with the aftermath of trauma.

Readers will find a wealth of information on the impact of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit, as well as guidance on how to navigate triggers, develop self-care practices, and cultivate resilience. The workbook format encourages active participation, providing space for reflection and journaling. By integrating mindfulness, somatic therapy, and cognitive-behavioral techniques, Dr. Schwartz offers a holistic approach to healing from trauma.

Whether you are a survivor of childhood abuse, combat veteran, or have experienced any form of trauma, The Complex PTSD Workbook is a valuable companion on the path to recovery and empowerment.

Healing from Trauma

by Jasmin Lee Cori

Healing from Trauma by Jasmin Lee Cori is a powerful and insightful book about overcoming the effects of trauma. Cori draws on her extensive experience as a psychotherapist to provide a compassionate and practical guide for those who have experienced trauma and are seeking to heal and reclaim their lives.

The book delves into the various manifestations of trauma, from childhood abuse to accidents and natural disasters, and offers a deep understanding of how trauma affects the mind, body, and spirit. Cori provides a wealth of tools and techniques to help readers navigate the healing process, including mindfulness exercises, body-based practices, and ways to build a support network.

What sets Healing from Trauma apart is Cori’s emphasis on self-compassion and empowerment, offering readers a path to not only heal from their past experiences but also to thrive in the present and future. This book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to overcome the impact of trauma and live a more fulfilling life.

The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook

by Glenn R. Schiraldi

The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook by Glenn R. Schiraldi is an essential resource for anyone seeking to understand and overcome the challenges of living with PTSD. This comprehensive book on healing from trauma provides valuable information on the causes and symptoms of PTSD, as well as practical strategies for managing and recovering from the condition. With a focus on empowerment and resilience, Schiraldi offers a wealth of expert advice and evidence-based techniques for coping with trauma and reclaiming a sense of well-being. Readers will find guidance on navigating the mental health system, building a support network, and finding effective treatment options. Whether you are personally dealing with PTSD or supporting someone who is, this book about healing from trauma is a compassionate and informative companion on the journey toward healing and recovery.

The Courage to Heal

by Ellen Bass and Laura Davis

The Courage to Heal by Ellen Bass and Laura Davis is a powerful and comprehensive book on healing from trauma. It provides a compassionate and empowering guide for survivors of sexual abuse, offering practical advice, personal stories, and exercises to help with the healing process. The authors cover a wide range of topics, including understanding the effects of trauma, dealing with the emotional aftermath, and reclaiming one’s life and sense of self. The book also addresses the challenges of overcoming shame, guilt, and fear, and offers insights into building healthy relationships and setting boundaries. With its empathetic approach and valuable resources, The Courage to Heal is a vital tool for anyone seeking to heal from trauma and reclaim their inner strength.

The Trauma Tool Kit

by Susan Pease Banitt

The Trauma Tool Kit by Susan Pease Banitt is a comprehensive and invaluable resource for anyone seeking to heal from the impact of trauma. This book provides a wide array of practical tools and techniques to help individuals navigate the complex journey of healing from trauma. Banitt draws from her extensive experience as a therapist specializing in trauma treatment, offering insights and guidance on how to effectively manage and overcome the lingering effects of trauma.

Through a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and somatic techniques, The Trauma Tool Kit equips readers with the necessary skills to process and release the emotional and physical pain associated with trauma. Banitt’s compassionate and empathetic approach creates a safe and supportive space for readers to explore their experiences and begin the journey towards healing. Whether you are a survivor of trauma or a mental health professional, this book about healing from trauma is an indispensable guide for reclaiming a sense of peace and empowerment.

Trauma Stewardship

by Laura van Dernoot Lipsky

Trauma Stewardship by Laura van Dernoot Lipsky is a compelling and insightful book that delves into the challenging but essential work of caring for others who have experienced trauma. Through powerful storytelling and practical guidance, Lipsky explores the impact of trauma exposure on those who work in helping professions and offers strategies for building resilience and maintaining well-being. This book is a valuable resource for anyone working in fields such as healthcare, social work, or emergency response, as well as for individuals who want to deepen their understanding of trauma and its effects.

With a compassionate and empathetic approach, Trauma Stewardship provides a fresh perspective on the importance of self-care and emphasizes the significance of finding balance and meaning in the midst of demanding and emotionally taxing work. By addressing the complexities of trauma stewardship, Lipsky offers a path towards personal and professional growth, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more sustainable way of engaging with trauma. This insightful book about healing from trauma is a must-read for anyone seeking to better understand and navigate the challenges of supporting others through difficult experiences.

The Body Remembers

by Babette Rothschild

The Body Remembers by Babette Rothschild is a groundbreaking book on healing from trauma that delves into the ways in which the body holds on to traumatic experiences. Rothschild, a renowned therapist, explores the physiological and psychological effects of trauma, offering valuable insights and practical techniques for healing and recovery. Through a combination of personal anecdotes, clinical case studies, and scientific research, Rothschild provides a comprehensive understanding of how trauma impacts the body and mind.

This book about healing from trauma offers a unique perspective on the importance of recognizing and addressing the physical manifestations of trauma, such as tension, pain, and other somatic symptoms. Rothschild presents accessible and effective strategies for reconnecting with the body and releasing stored trauma, empowering readers to take an active role in their healing journey. The Body Remembers is an essential resource for anyone seeking to understand and overcome the lingering effects of trauma, offering hope and guidance for a path toward healing.

The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog

by Bruce D. Perry and Maia Szalavitz

The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog is a captivating book on healing from trauma that delves into the profound impact of childhood experiences on the developing brain. Written by renowned psychiatrist Bruce D. Perry and journalist Maia Szalavitz, this book presents a series of compelling case studies that illustrate the transformative power of empathy and understanding in helping children recover from trauma. Through poignant and thought-provoking stories, the authors explore how early adversity can shape a child’s emotional and cognitive development, offering valuable insights into the complexities of the human mind.

With a blend of scientific research and real-life anecdotes, The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog provides a poignant and enlightening exploration of how compassion and connection can mend the deepest wounds. This healing from trauma book offers a profound understanding of the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for recovery, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the profound impact of trauma and the potential for healing.

Trauma and the Body

by Pat Ogden

Trauma and the Body by Pat Ogden is a groundbreaking book on healing from trauma that explores the profound connection between our physical experiences and emotional well-being. Ogden, a pioneer in somatic psychology, delves into the ways in which traumatic experiences can become stored in the body, impacting our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through a combination of research, case studies, and practical exercises, she offers a holistic approach to healing from trauma, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with the body to process and release past wounds.

Readers will gain a deeper understanding of how trauma affects the nervous system and learn practical tools for regulating emotions, reducing anxiety, and cultivating a greater sense of safety and empowerment. Whether you are a therapist, survivor, or simply interested in the mind-body connection, this book about healing from trauma offers invaluable insights and strategies for reclaiming your sense of wholeness and well-being.

The Trauma Recovery Handbook

by Aphrodite Matsakis

The Trauma Recovery Handbook by Aphrodite Matsakis is a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking to overcome the effects of trauma. This insightful book on healing from trauma provides practical and effective strategies for coping with the aftermath of traumatic experiences. Matsakis, a renowned expert in the field of psychology, offers a wealth of information on the psychological and emotional impact of trauma, as well as techniques for managing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

The book about healing from trauma also delves into the process of understanding and confronting painful memories, and provides guidance on rebuilding a sense of safety and trust. The Trauma Recovery Handbook is a valuable resource for anyone looking to navigate the challenging journey of healing from trauma, offering hope and encouragement along the way. With its compassionate and empowering approach, this healing from trauma book is a must-read for those seeking to reclaim their lives after experiencing trauma.

Healing Trauma

by Peter A. Levine

Healing Trauma by Peter A. Levine is a groundbreaking book on overcoming the impact of traumatic experiences. Levine, a renowned therapist and expert in the field of trauma, offers a unique approach to healing from trauma that focuses on the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Through his Somatic Experiencing method, Levine guides readers on a transformative journey of understanding and releasing the physical and emotional effects of trauma.

This book about healing from trauma provides practical exercises and insightful guidance for individuals seeking to reclaim their lives from the grip of past trauma. Levine’s compassionate and holistic approach empowers readers to reconnect with their bodies and cultivate a sense of safety and resilience. Whether you are personally dealing with the aftermath of trauma or supporting someone on their healing journey, this healing from trauma book offers invaluable wisdom and hope for the path to recovery.

The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma

by Bessel van der Kolk

The Body Keeps the Score is a groundbreaking book on healing from trauma by Bessel van der Kolk. This captivating and insightful work explores the complex interplay between the brain, mind, and body in the healing process. Van der Kolk, a renowned psychiatrist and trauma expert, draws on decades of research and clinical experience to shed light on the profound effects of trauma on the human psyche and physiology.

Through compelling case studies and scientific evidence, the book delves into the various forms of trauma, from childhood abuse to combat experiences, and offers a deep understanding of how trauma affects individuals on a neurological and emotional level. Van der Kolk also presents a range of innovative therapeutic approaches, including yoga, EMDR, and neurofeedback, that have shown remarkable success in helping individuals overcome the lasting impact of trauma.

With its compassionate and accessible writing, The Body Keeps the Score is a must-read for anyone seeking a greater understanding of trauma and the pathways to healing.

Healing from Trauma: A Survivor’s Guide to Understanding Your Symptoms and Reclaiming Your Life

by Jasmin Lee Cori

Healing from Trauma: A Survivor’s Guide to Understanding Your Symptoms and Reclaiming Your Life by Jasmin Lee Cori is a comprehensive book on healing from trauma that offers a compassionate and insightful approach to understanding and overcoming the impact of trauma. Cori, a licensed psychotherapist and trauma survivor herself, provides a deep exploration of the various symptoms and effects of trauma, as well as practical strategies for reclaiming one’s life.

Through personal anecdotes, case studies, and research-based insights, Cori guides readers through the complex journey of healing, addressing common challenges such as anxiety, dissociation, and self-destructive behaviors. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, self-care, and building a support network to aid in the healing process. By offering a blend of psychological knowledge and personal experience, Cori creates a relatable and empowering resource for individuals seeking to navigate their own path to recovery.

Whether you’re a trauma survivor yourself or someone supporting a loved one through their healing journey, this book about healing from trauma offers valuable guidance and hope for reclaiming a sense of wholeness and well-being.

The Complex PTSD Workbook: A Mind-Body Approach to Regaining Emotional Control and Becoming Whole

by Arielle Schwartz

The Complex PTSD Workbook by Arielle Schwartz offers a comprehensive mind-body approach to regaining emotional control and becoming whole after experiencing trauma. This book provides a practical and compassionate guide for individuals who have been impacted by complex trauma, helping them navigate the journey towards healing and recovery.

Readers will find a wealth of exercises, strategies, and techniques that integrate both psychological and somatic approaches to address the deep wounds of complex PTSD. Dr. Schwartz draws from her extensive experience as a psychologist and yoga instructor, offering a unique blend of traditional therapy and mindfulness practices to support the healing process.

Through this workbook, readers will learn how to cultivate self-compassion, develop healthy coping skills, and re-establish a sense of safety and trust within themselves. With its accessible and supportive approach, The Complex PTSD Workbook serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to reclaim their emotional well-being and find a path towards wholeness after trauma.

Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma

by Peter A. Levine

Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma by Peter A. Levine is a groundbreaking book on healing from trauma that offers a fresh perspective on the nature of trauma and how it can be healed. Levine draws on his extensive experience as a therapist and researcher to explore the ways in which trauma affects the mind, body, and spirit, and offers practical techniques for releasing trauma and restoring a sense of wholeness.

Through compelling case studies and insightful observations, Levine provides a new understanding of how trauma impacts the nervous system and how it can be resolved. He introduces the concept of “somatic experiencing” as a powerful tool for healing trauma, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with the body’s innate wisdom in the recovery process.

With its compassionate approach and transformative insights, Waking the Tiger is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand and overcome the effects of trauma. This book about healing from trauma offers hope and practical guidance for those on the path to recovery.

The Courage to Heal: A Guide for Women Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse

by Ellen Bass and Laura Davis

The Courage to Heal: A Guide for Women Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse is a powerful and groundbreaking book on healing from trauma. Written by Ellen Bass and Laura Davis, this book provides a comprehensive and compassionate guide for women who have experienced the devastating effects of child sexual abuse. The authors offer practical advice, personal stories, and exercises to help survivors navigate the healing process and reclaim their lives.

The Courage to Heal is a beacon of hope for survivors, empowering them to confront their past, break free from the silence and shame, and move towards a future of healing and wholeness. With its sensitive and supportive approach, this book about healing from trauma has become a trusted resource for survivors, therapists, and advocates. It is a must-read for anyone seeking guidance and understanding on the journey to recovery from childhood sexual abuse.

Final Thoughts on Best Healing From Trauma Books

Healing From Trauma is a journey that often requires guidance and support. The 20 best books about healing from trauma offer a wealth of insight, tools, and inspiration for those seeking to navigate their own path to recovery. Whether you are looking for personal stories of resilience, practical strategies for coping, or a deeper understanding of the healing process, these books provide a valuable resource for anyone on their healing journey.

Which book about Healing From Trauma is best?

The best book on Healing From Trauma can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk,
  2. The Deepest Well by Nadine Burke Harris,
  3. Trauma and Recovery by Judith Herman.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Healing From Trauma?

For those looking to learn about Healing From Trauma, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk,
  2. The Deepest Well by Nadine Burke Harris,
  3. Trauma and Recovery by Judith Herman,
  4. Waking the Tiger by Peter A. Levine,
  5. The Complex PTSD Workbook by Arielle Schwartz,
  6. Healing from Trauma by Jasmin Lee Cori,
  7. The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook by Glenn R. Schiraldi,
  8. The Courage to Heal by Ellen Bass and Laura Davis,
  9. The Trauma Tool Kit by Susan Pease Banitt,
  10. Trauma Stewardship by Laura van Dernoot Lipsky

These books offer a range of perspectives on Healing From Trauma, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Healing From Trauma?

The best books about Healing From Trauma are:

  • The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk,
  • The Deepest Well by Nadine Burke Harris,
  • The Body Remembers by Babette Rothschild,
  • The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog by Bruce D. Perry and Maia Szalavitz,
  • The Courage to Heal by Ellen Bass and Laura Davis,
  • Healing from Trauma by Jasmin Lee Cori.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Healing From Trauma are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Healing From Trauma books of all time?

Choosing the best Healing From Trauma books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk,
  • The Deepest Well by Nadine Burke Harris,
  • The Complex PTSD Workbook by Arielle Schwartz,
  • The Courage to Heal by Ellen Bass and Laura Davis,
  • and The Body Remembers by Babette Rothschild.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Healing From Trauma and continues to be influential today.