ABSTRACT
Clients present with an extensive range of psychosocial problems post-trauma. Although there are some commonalities in responses to traumas that simplify psychological treatment, there is a need to tailor treatment to the individual. In this chapter, the reader is introduced to the mode of questioning needed to reliably identify a disorder such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The author cautions against using speedy rules of thumb (heuristics), for deciding on the course of treatment. The heuristics can short circuit the client's narrative, which is central to effective treatment. Encountering the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune is a lot of most people at some point in their life, but most recover without professional help. It is suggested that risk-taking is an important part of restoring dignity.
