You're going to be okay: 15 Books To Heal From CPTSD

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) can have a profound impact on individuals, affecting their emotional well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. However, healing from CPTSD is possible, and books can be a valuable resource on this journey to recovery. In this blog post, we present a curated list of 15 books that offer insights, strategies, and support for healing from CPTSD. Whether you are just starting your healing journey or seeking additional resources, these books provide valuable guidance and empower you to reclaim your life.

1. The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk:

In "The Body Keeps the Score," Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, one of the world’s foremost experts on trauma, offers a bold new paradigm for healing. He explores the profound impact of trauma on the brain, mind, and body, providing deep insights into the ways trauma can both harm and heal. This New York Times bestseller offers new hope for reclaiming lives affected by CPTSD.

2. What Happened to You?: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey:

Through deeply personal conversations, renowned brain and trauma expert Dr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey present a groundbreaking and profound shift in our approach to trauma. In "What Happened to You?", they explore the question, "What happened to you?" rather than asking, "What's wrong with you?" This powerful shift allows us to understand our pasts, clear a path to our future, and open the door to resilience and healing.

3. Coping with Trauma-Related Dissociation: Skills Training for Patients and Therapists by Onno van der Hart, Kathy Steele, and Suzette Boon:

In "Coping with Trauma-Related Dissociation," the authors provide a comprehensive training manual for individuals with trauma-related dissociative disorders. The book offers short educational pieces, homework sheets, and exercises that address the ways in which dissociation interferes with essential emotional and life skills. It supports inner communication and collaboration with dissociative parts of the personality.

4. Widen the Window: Training Your Brain and Body to Thrive During Stress and Recover from Trauma by Elizabeth A. Stanley:

Dr. Elizabeth Stanley, a pioneering researcher, explores the trauma continuum and its effect on resilience in "Widen the Window." Drawing on stories from men and women, she offers readers hands-on strategies they can use themselves. Whether one wants to perform under pressure or heal from traumatic experiences, this book points our understanding in a new direction and provides practical tools for thriving during stress.

5. Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness: Practices for Safe and Transformative Healing by David A. Treleaven:

"Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness" combines mindfulness practices with trauma-sensitive approaches. David A. Treleaven guides readers in creating a safe and supportive environment for healing trauma. The book offers practices and techniques that allow individuals with CPTSD to engage in mindfulness without triggering overwhelming emotions. It emphasizes adaptability and compassion in the healing process.

6. The PTSD Workbook: Simple, Effective Techniques for Overcoming Traumatic Stress Symptoms by Mary Beth Williams and Soili Poijula:

"The PTSD Workbook" provides practical exercises and techniques to help individuals manage PTSD symptoms. It covers various topics, including grounding techniques, managing triggers, and developing coping skills. The workbook empowers readers to actively participate in their healing journey and regain control over their lives.

7. Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving by Pete Walker:

Pete Walker's "Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving" offers an in-depth exploration of CPTSD and provides guidance for survivors. The book explores the symptoms, causes, and impact of CPTSD and offers practical strategies for managing emotional flashbacks, building self-esteem, and developing healthy relationships. Walker's compassionate approach provides validation and hope for individuals on the path to healing.

8. The Complex PTSD Workbook: A Mind-Body Approach to Regaining Emotional Control and Becoming Whole by Arielle Schwartz:

In "The Complex PTSD Workbook," Arielle Schwartz combines mindfulness, somatic awareness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to address the challenges of CPTSD. Through exercises and practices, readers learn to regulate emotions, develop self-compassion, and integrate traumatic experiences. This workbook serves as a valuable companion on the journey to healing and becoming whole.

9. Believing Me: Healing from Narcissistic Abuse and Complex Trauma by Ingrid Clayton:

"Believing Me" is a powerful memoir by Ingrid Clayton that sheds light on the hidden nature of childhood trauma and its long-lasting effects. With raw and evocative storytelling, Clayton exposes the pervasive influence of emotional abuse and the struggle to reclaim one's self-worth. This emotionally gripping narrative offers a profound understanding of healing and serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

10. Healing Developmental Trauma: How Early Trauma Affects Self-Regulation, Self-Image, and the Capacity for Relationship by Laurence Heller and Aline LaPierre:

"Healing Developmental Trauma" delves into the effects of early trauma on self-regulation, self-image, and the capacity for healthy relationships. The authors provide therapeutic tools and interventions for healing developmental trauma and fostering resilience. Through a compassionate and holistic approach, this book supports individuals in understanding and healing the impact of early trauma.

11. It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn:

Mark Wolynn explores the intergenerational transmission of trauma in "It Didn't Start with You." The book sheds light on how inherited family trauma shapes our lives, behaviors, and relationships. Wolynn provides practical tools for breaking free from the cycle of inherited trauma, fostering personal healing, and creating a more fulfilling life.

12. The Trauma Tool Kit: Healing PTSD from the Inside Out by Susan Pease Banitt:

"The Trauma Tool Kit" offers a comprehensive approach to healing trauma, combining Eastern and Western therapeutic modalities. Susan Pease Banitt provides tools and practices for managing PTSD symptoms, cultivating resilience, and restoring balance to the mind, body, and spirit. This book supports individuals in developing a personalized toolkit for their healing journey.

13. Transforming The Living Legacy of Trauma: A Workbook for Survivors and Therapists by Janina Fisher:

"Transforming The Living Legacy of Trauma" by Janina Fisher is a transformative workbook that empowers survivors and therapists alike. With expert guidance and practical exercises, Fisher helps readers navigate the complexities of trauma and find healing. This workbook is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to break free from the grips of trauma and create a brighter future.

14. Healing from Hidden Abuse: A Journey Through the Stages of Recovery from Psychological Abuse by Shannon Thomas:

"Healing from Hidden Abuse" focuses on recovery from psychological abuse and offers a roadmap for healing. Shannon Thomas guides readers through the stages of recovery, helping them understand the impact of abuse and reclaim their sense of self. The book provides validation, support, and practical tools for survivors of hidden abuse.

15. Recovery from Narcissistic Abuse, Gaslighting, Codependency and Complex PTSD (4 Books in 1): Workbook and Guide to Overcome Trauma, Toxic Relationships, Anxiety, and Improve Mental Health by Linda Hill:

Recovery from Narcissistic Abuse, Gaslighting, Codependency and Complex PTSD by Linda Hill is a transformative resource offering essential knowledge and practical tools to overcome trauma, toxic relationships, and improve mental health. With comprehensive insights and real-life scenarios, this therapist-recommended guide empowers readers to recognize and break free from destructive patterns, providing a roadmap to reclaiming their lives and fostering healing. A must-read for trauma survivors seeking guidance and empowerment on their journey to recovery.

Conclusion:

Healing from CPTSD is a deeply personal and transformative journey. These 15 books offer valuable insights, strategies, and support for individuals seeking to heal from CPTSD. They provide a range of perspectives, therapeutic approaches, and practical tools to empower individuals in their recovery process. Remember, healing is possible, and by accessing the wisdom within these books, you can embark on a path of healing, resilience, and reclaiming your life.