Understanding Trauma and Dissociation: A Guide for Therapists, Patients and Loved Ones

by Lynn Mary Karjala

Dr. Lynn Karjala unravels the mystery of dissociation in this “must-read” book for psychotherapists who treat the aftereffects of trauma, as well as for trauma survivors and their loved ones. In simple and clear language, she explains the connection between dissociation, trauma, and the devastating physical and psychological symptoms that stem from them. She offers a thorough description and understanding of the three phases of trauma treatment, with an eminently practical guide for using the Quintessential Safe Place to minimize the terrifying experience of retraumatization by the flooding of traumatic feelings and thoughts. There is an engaging description of the “critical voice/protectors,” a very active internal system aimed, among other things, at derailing treatment and preventing the patient from experiencing any hope of recovery. Finally, there is an introduction to mind-body techniques and their application to the treatment of trauma. An essential addition to the library of any psychotherapist working with dissociative patients and a valuable resource for trauma survivors and their loved ones.

Genres: Psychology, Self Help

Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 2007

Reviews

[Lance · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an actual lifesaver.

[Maria Magdalena · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a short and to the point book from which I have learned many key things that have helped me in my recovery. It is from this book that I learned that I am the host AND the original self/core self. This was after being led down on a whole goose chase to find the core led by many so-called "experts" on recovery from DID. This book is a must read if you are DID.

The parts on recovery include some tools that I am not that keen on. They seem to have a little New Age philosophy woven into them. I believe you can use the tools however and adapt them to your own worldview/philosophy.

My husband is reading it and he is not DID. He is not only gaining understanding about me, but also for himself as well. Some of the tools for internal recovery will help anyone with any level of woundedness or background trauma.

[Barry · Rating 2 out of 5]

In this book, Ms. Karjala adds her opinions on dissociation and trauma-based mental health issues based on her years of practice. It is interesting to read her opinions and she provides some neat examples of cases she has experienced, how she handled them, and what she learned through the process. Despite the book's claim to be the authority on how to approach dissociative problems clinically, it all boils down to one woman's opinions. It is interesting, yes, and perhaps even informative, but to take this book as the authoritative word on dissociation is dangerous.

[John Yarbrough · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another reviewer characterized this as opinion by one author, I don't. She takes her experience on dealing with dissociation and discusses her techniques on addressing the issue. She delves into energy psychology and how it has sped the recovery time up for her patients. Furthermore, she provided a history of this type of psychology. Informative. Helpfu.