Jennifer Sweeton - The Traumatic Stress Recovery Workbook: 40 Brain-Changing Techniques You Can Use Right Now to Treat Symptoms of PTSD and Start Feeling Better

Translating the neuroscience of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) into simple but effective trauma resolution techniques is what Jennifer Sweeton does best. This book offers survivors a refreshing, jargon-free guide to healing by artfully combining research results, survivor vignettes, symptom assessments, and self-help tools into a cohesive whole. By avoiding allegiance to any particular treatment method, Sweeton also assures that the recommended activities will be compatible with all therapeutic approaches.

Mike Deninger, PhD , trauma survivor, trainer, and author of Multichannel Eye Movement Integration

All trauma is not created equal. Neither are all trauma workbooks. While many resources of this kind exist, few equip clinicians with research-backed, evidence-based, practical strategies for empowering clients in the way that Sweeton is uniquely qualified to do. Individuals who have experienced all levels of trauma or stress-related events will be well on their road to recovery after arming themselves with these tools. Well done!

Jeff Riggenbach, PhD , author of The CBT Toolbox

Jennifer Sweeton makes the neuroscience of trauma practical, easy to understand, and accessible. She includes techniques that anyone can begin using immediately, and breaks down difficult concepts in a digestible and engaging manner. In a world fond of technical jargon and wordy explanations, it is a breath of fresh air to have Sweetons workbook availableI will definitely be recommending to clients!

Britt Frank, MSW, LSCSW, SEP , licensed psychotherapist, trauma specialist, and author of The Science of Stuck

The Traumatic Stress Recovery Workbook delivers practical and accessible techniques for readers with diverse trauma backgrounds to approach the recovery process with confidence. Jennifer Sweetons years of professional experience and deep understanding of effective trauma treatment are on full display as each chapter masterfully balances psychoeducation, skill building, and personal reflection. This workbook will be a game-changer for countless people impacted by trauma.

Corey Petersen, PhD , clinical psychotherapist, and psychotherapeutic language researcher and educator

This book puts together an exceptional understanding of how trauma impacts the brain and body. This collection of tools provides individuals who have experienced trauma with the means to combat the associated symptoms and impact on their lives. This workbook has something for anyone who has ever struggled.

Amanda S. Vaught, PsyD , trauma expert, former director of training within Veteran Affairs Health Care System, and adjunct faculty at Villanova University

Publishers Note

This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering psychological, financial, legal, or other professional services. If expert assistance or counseling is needed, the services of a competent professional should be sought.

NEW HARBINGER PUBLICATIONS is a registered trademark of New Harbinger Publications, Inc.

New Harbinger Publications is an employee-owned company.

Copyright 2022 by Jennifer Sweeton

New Harbinger Publications, Inc.

5674 Shattuck Avenue

Oakland, CA 94609

www.newharbinger.com

All Rights Reserved

Cover design by Sara Christian

Acquired by Jess OBrien

Edited by Karen Levy

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Names: Sweeton, Jennifer, author.

Title: The traumatic stress recovery workbook : 40 brain-changing techniques you can use right now to treat symptoms of PTSD and start feeling better / Jennifer Sweeton.

Description: Oakland, CA : New Harbinger Publications, [2022] | Includes bibliographical references.

Identifiers: LCCN 2022018876 | ISBN 9781684038848 (trade paperback)

Subjects: LCSH: Post-traumatic stress disorder--Treatment. | Self-care, Health. | BISAC: SELF-HELP / Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) | PSYCHOLOGY / Psychopathology / Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Classification: LCC RC552.P67 S94 2022 | DDC 616.85/21--dc23/eng/20220716

LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2022018876

This book is dedicated to my precious daughter, Annaliese, who inspires me to try new things, work hard, and live life to the fullest!

Contents

Introduction

If youve experienced psychological trauma, youre probably aware of how it can impact your relationships, professional life, and overall functioning. In fact, many survivors report that there is no domain of their life that it hasnt touched in some way. However, if this has happened to you, youre not alone, and recovery is possible! As a trauma psychologist, Ive treated hundreds of people who have been traumatized by war, abuse, neglect, natural disasters, accidents, sexual assault, and various other forms of violence. Despite all of the pain and heartbreak Ive heard about, I remain hopeful and optimistic about everyones potential to heal, as Ive seen amazing growth and recovery even after the most debilitating trauma.

While everyones story is different, and no two peoples healing journeys are alike, Ive found that peoples reactions to trauma can actually be quite similar, and many clients report the same challenges after trauma. For instance, a couple of common reactions to trauma are sleep difficulties and anger problems, and the good news is that there are techniques that can help you address these issues. This book describes nine of the most common challenges facing trauma survivors and offers forty tools and techniques you can begin using right away. It is my sincere hope that you will find this workbook helpful in your recovery journey!

Self-Assessment: Is This Book for You?

As a unique person with your own reactions, there is no research study or book that can fully capture and address the entirety of your experience. However, this book may be for you if some of the following challenges seem familiar to you. For example, if youve found it difficult to trust other people, or manage anger after your trauma(s), youre not alone, and this book may be beneficial as you learn how to tackle these challenges. Take a look at the self-assessment below, and ask yourself whether these topics, or themes, resonate with you. You can also visit http://www.newharbinger.com/48848 to download a copy of this exercise.

Common Challenges After Trauma

Reviewing your answers, what do you notice? Did you answer yes to any of the topics in the Common Challenge column? If you did, and if you scored a 5 or above on one or more of the challenges, then this book was written for you. Like many other trauma survivors, youre likely experiencing post-trauma difficulties that are impacting your life. The tools and exercises in this book help survivors begin to address these exact challenges.