Rebuilding Shattered Lives: Treating Complex PTSD and Dissociative Disorders

by James A. Chu

"Rebuilding Shattered Lives" presents valuable insights into the rebuilding of adult psyches shattered in childhood, drawing on the author's extensive research and clinical experience specializing in treating survivors of severe abuse.

The new edition includes:
- Developments in the treatment of complex PTSD
- More on neurobiology, crisis management, and psychopharmacology for trauma-related disorders
- Examination of early attachment relationships and their impact on overall development
- The impact of disorganized attachment on a child's vulnerability to various forms of victimization
- An update on the management of special issues

This is an essential guide for every therapist working with clients who have suffered severe trauma.

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction, Mental Health, Self Help, Counselling, Social Work, Ebooks

384 pages, Paperback

First published March 31, 1998

Reviews

[Alexis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very readable book about complex trauma. I found this book to be very de-pathologizing of many of the challenges that individuals with complex trauma experience (e.g., the chapter about memory and the nature of trauma memories within the context of complex trauma was particularly useful in better understanding how to present this information to normalize clients' experiences and confusion around their memories). Although this is the second edition, there are several places where the content does not appear to have been updated with the most recent research (e.g., the section on self-harm and ensuring safety). On the flip side, there are several chapters where the information is very comprehensive and beautifully outlines some of the more recent debates in the field, and how these apply to clinical practice. I really appreciated the clinical vignettes.

[Alison Steiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exceptional resource reflecting the latest research on the treatment of survivors of trauma and abuse, as well as drawing on Dr Chu's own fascinating clinical observations. A 'must-read' for anyone working in mental health or with an interest in memory, attachment and development. Brilliant.

[Root · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rebuilding Shattered Lives functions moreso as a history of trauma research as opposed to a treatment regimen or best practices for treating  traumagenic disorders. For that reason, I've lowered its score. 

With that in mind, this book does a wonderful job of delving into the field of psychology's history with trauma and tying these facts to how its influenced modern day psychology and how we view traumagenic disorders now, as well as current shortcomings within the field and criticism of how society itself handles trauma and abuse. It is data heavy, which I personally enjoy, and as such it functions well as an introduction to trauma research.

I would recommend this book to psychology students looking for more information on trauma research, those seeking to understand the history of psychology in regard to traumagenic disorders, and those looking to gain a basic understanding of how traumagenic disorders form and function. 

[Melissa H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

An important work on treating those with the most traumatic histories. Well-written, succinct, & empathetic, Chu does a particularly effective job of discussing the therapeutic dance. I have shared portions of the book in session with clients, & it's been very powerful for them to come to a new understanding of themselves & their personal narratives. Very helpful for DID work.

[Gina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is very insightful, and I think great for therapists. Sometimes the heavy sourcing can be distracting, but I certainly see the purpose.

I probably don't recommend it for patients. It is highly academic, and some of the brief case histories and the more frequent discussion of the difficulties of treatment could be very discouraging for those who still need to heal.

It's unfortunate that this is so hard to find.

[Teresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

The content of the book was super useful, but very dense material. I found it hard to get through, nevertheless I plan on keeping this book forever on a "how to" on complex trauma.

[Elizabeth Bolthouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book which thoroughly unpacks the history of trauma treatment, the diagnosis of trauma disorders, and effective interventions. Highly recommend.

[Annie PhD · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource. It is a very dense book, lots of information to absorb. Overall, it includes both historical observations and research, and provides a compassionate viewpoint on the challenges experienced in living with, and treating complex trauma.

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic book on how to help those with these intriguing disorder.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

realy good insight into ptsd

[Jerry Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

I found it easy to read and very informative to my practice and study. I would gladly read more of his stuff

[Morgan Moumouris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good textbook for trauma

[Hannah D · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought it tried to do a bit too much instead of narrowing its focus.