ABSTRACT

Understanding the Paradox of Surviving Childhood Trauma offers clinicians a new framework for understanding the symptoms and coping mechanisms displayed by survivors of childhood abuse. This approach considers how characteristics such as suicidality, self-harm, persistent depression, and anxiety can have roots in behaviors and beliefs that helped patients survive their trauma. This book provides practitioners with case examples, practical tips, and techniques for applying this mindset directly to their most complex cases. By depathologizing patients’ experiences and behaviors, and moving beyond simply managing them, therapists can reduce their clients’ shame and work collaboratively to understand the underlying message that these behaviors conceal.

chapter 3|29 pages

The Legacy of Abuse

Exploring How Rules and Beliefs are Formed in Attachment Relationships

chapter 4|25 pages

A Shift in Perspective

Exploring Suicidality

chapter 5|23 pages

A Shift in Perspective

Exploring Dissociation

chapter 6|23 pages

A Shift in Perspective

Exploring Issues of Identity

chapter 7|20 pages

Bringing Ourselves into the Therapy Room