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The Trauma Tree: Going Beyond Survival, Growing Toward Wholeness
Trauma doesn't have to define you. Trauma is a liar. It claims that all hope is lost and that pain dictates your life. Lisa Saruga understands this struggle deeply. As a licensed counselor, trauma therapist, and a victim of sexual assault, she's been there, and she knows the way out. The Trauma Tree is a companion for your healing journey. Saruga walks with you through her own story and the stories of survivors, demonstrating how you can move through trauma, avoid re-traumatization, and grow stronger in your mind, body, and spirit. Woven throughout is a parable of Saruga's front-yard pear tree, a representation of life and longevity . . . until it was crushed by what seemed like irreparable physical trauma. For the pear tree, and maybe for you, too, a devastating event has transformed life from flourishing to simply surviving. But mere survival doesn't have to be the goal. Discover the God-given resources you were created with and learn to process emotions, find a healthy support system, and start an effective therapeutic path to healing. Move toward God's goal for healing and wholeness.
200 pages, Paperback
Published February 11, 2025
23 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
February 12, 2025
As a Christian Life Coach with many years in ministry, I know trauma is pervasive among the women I coach and lead.
“The Trauma Tree” is an important book for anyone who wants to gain understanding and compassion for themselves and the women they know and love. Lisa's words are honest, gentle, and illuminating.
Read “The Trauma Tree” for yourself and pass it on to your friends who are coaches, therapists, and ministry leaders. I can't wait to incorporate what I am learning into my coaching.
“The Trauma Tree” is an important book for anyone who wants to gain understanding and compassion for themselves and the women they know and love. Lisa's words are honest, gentle, and illuminating.
Read “The Trauma Tree” for yourself and pass it on to your friends who are coaches, therapists, and ministry leaders. I can't wait to incorporate what I am learning into my coaching.
February 11, 2025
Lisa Saruga's book, The Trauma Tree, is a unique gift to the hurting world. She speaks with experience from both sides of the trauma tree as a trusted survivor and wise counselor. Lisa shares her journey in a way that helps you work through your own. At first, I was unsure how my own experiences with trauma might inhibit my reading of Lisa's book. But in every chapter, Lisa's story helped me own more of my own as we walked together through grief, loss, and the so-called 'Big T' and 'Little T' traumas toward wholeness in real life. The Trauma Tree is Grace gold on every page.
April 24, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up.
I have read a large number of books about trauma, and this one stands out as an especially helpful one. The guidance in this book flows from the author's experiences as a trauma survivor and as a licensed trauma therapist, and it is full of helpful information and heartfelt encouragement. Lisa Saruga assures her readers that their trauma does not have to define them, and she walks people through what trauma is, how trauma affects the body, mind, and soul, and how people can care for themselves in the immediate aftermath of trauma and pursue healing long-term.
Each chapter is brief and easy to understand. Saruga shares key research findings and scientific concepts about trauma through simple terms and helpful metaphors, and she primarily focuses on the implications for life. Throughout the book, she shares lots of practical takeaways for her readers, and she recommends home exercises and potential therapy options that people may find helpful.
Each chapter concludes with reflection questions and a Bible verse. The author weaves Scripture and biblical messages into the book in a very natural way, and I appreciated the Christian themes and biblical examples about persevering through trauma, experiencing God's love, and holding onto hope. However, even though the author wrote this for a Christian audience, readers from other belief backgrounds can still find this helpful. The faith elements reflect a Christian perspective without feeling forced or preachy, and the majority of the practical advice applies to everyone, regardless of one's spiritual beliefs.
Throughout this book, the author shares stories and insights from her own trauma experiences, and she also shares stories from other trauma survivors. These examples reflect different types of trauma, and they are all free of graphic details. It is very common for books about trauma to include intense, explicit details about life's horrors, and I appreciate this author's different approach.
Her restraint keeps this book more accessible for traumatized readers, and this book also stands out because of its very practical, down-to-earth focus. The author focuses on everyday living aspects of trauma instead of doing a deep dive into psychology, and this will be especially helpful for trauma sufferers who do not have the attention span or desire to read books that are more clinical and scientific in nature.
One quick note I want to add is that this book's font size is fairly small. Although this was not a problem for me, people who have vision difficulties or struggle to focus on small text may prefer to read the ebook version, so that they can adjust the font size to something more comfortable for them.
This is an excellent resource for understanding and healing from trauma. I recommend this to people who are suffering from trauma, as well as to counselors, ministry leaders, and loved ones who are supporting trauma victims. Whether someone is already knowledgeable about the realities of trauma or is just beginning to learn about the subject, this book provides a clear, helpful, and compassionate voice to guide someone further on their journey.
I received a free copy from the publisher, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I have read a large number of books about trauma, and this one stands out as an especially helpful one. The guidance in this book flows from the author's experiences as a trauma survivor and as a licensed trauma therapist, and it is full of helpful information and heartfelt encouragement. Lisa Saruga assures her readers that their trauma does not have to define them, and she walks people through what trauma is, how trauma affects the body, mind, and soul, and how people can care for themselves in the immediate aftermath of trauma and pursue healing long-term.
Each chapter is brief and easy to understand. Saruga shares key research findings and scientific concepts about trauma through simple terms and helpful metaphors, and she primarily focuses on the implications for life. Throughout the book, she shares lots of practical takeaways for her readers, and she recommends home exercises and potential therapy options that people may find helpful.
Each chapter concludes with reflection questions and a Bible verse. The author weaves Scripture and biblical messages into the book in a very natural way, and I appreciated the Christian themes and biblical examples about persevering through trauma, experiencing God's love, and holding onto hope. However, even though the author wrote this for a Christian audience, readers from other belief backgrounds can still find this helpful. The faith elements reflect a Christian perspective without feeling forced or preachy, and the majority of the practical advice applies to everyone, regardless of one's spiritual beliefs.
Throughout this book, the author shares stories and insights from her own trauma experiences, and she also shares stories from other trauma survivors. These examples reflect different types of trauma, and they are all free of graphic details. It is very common for books about trauma to include intense, explicit details about life's horrors, and I appreciate this author's different approach.
Her restraint keeps this book more accessible for traumatized readers, and this book also stands out because of its very practical, down-to-earth focus. The author focuses on everyday living aspects of trauma instead of doing a deep dive into psychology, and this will be especially helpful for trauma sufferers who do not have the attention span or desire to read books that are more clinical and scientific in nature.
One quick note I want to add is that this book's font size is fairly small. Although this was not a problem for me, people who have vision difficulties or struggle to focus on small text may prefer to read the ebook version, so that they can adjust the font size to something more comfortable for them.
This is an excellent resource for understanding and healing from trauma. I recommend this to people who are suffering from trauma, as well as to counselors, ministry leaders, and loved ones who are supporting trauma victims. Whether someone is already knowledgeable about the realities of trauma or is just beginning to learn about the subject, this book provides a clear, helpful, and compassionate voice to guide someone further on their journey.
I received a free copy from the publisher, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 12, 2025
I have been so blessed by reading The Trauma Tree by Lisa Saruga. I believe it’s accurate to say we all know someone who has experienced trauma and suffered greatly. “The problem with trauma is that we never simply get over it. The truth is, we have to walk through it. The pain is inescapable, even if we choose to ignore the trauma.”
Like the author, I too, have personally experienced trauma. Big “T” trauma and Little “t” trauma and THIS BOOK, The Trauma Tree is a healing resource for everyone who has endured. This authentic book offers HOPE from survival mode to walking in wholeness and thriving.
The wisdom in these pages will assist you or someone you know whether the trauma is recent or from decades ago. One thing that encouraged me personally was the author explaining how post-traumatic stress (PTSD) is not a disorder we are born with, IT IS an injury that happens to us. That is the truth!
Honestly, I have learned several new healing techniques that I had never heard of before. As an adult who experienced childhood trauma, what I can confidently say is God is our ultimate healer. He is so compassionate and gracious. And healing, more healing is available for you or your loved one who has endured a grief filled event. If you or someone you know, has experienced trauma, this book will assist in his or her healing. The healing that only God can provide.
Bless that someone in your life with a gift of healing and hope.
This book, The Trauma Tree: Going Beyond Survival, Growing Toward Wholeness helps readers to find healing after experiencing a period of suffering, or time when it’s difficult to find joy. “…you have been created with all you need to survive, heal, and grow.”
Healing is possible!
Who can you share this healing resource with?
I highly recommend this book!
Tracy Michaud, author of Broken and Blessed
Like the author, I too, have personally experienced trauma. Big “T” trauma and Little “t” trauma and THIS BOOK, The Trauma Tree is a healing resource for everyone who has endured. This authentic book offers HOPE from survival mode to walking in wholeness and thriving.
The wisdom in these pages will assist you or someone you know whether the trauma is recent or from decades ago. One thing that encouraged me personally was the author explaining how post-traumatic stress (PTSD) is not a disorder we are born with, IT IS an injury that happens to us. That is the truth!
Honestly, I have learned several new healing techniques that I had never heard of before. As an adult who experienced childhood trauma, what I can confidently say is God is our ultimate healer. He is so compassionate and gracious. And healing, more healing is available for you or your loved one who has endured a grief filled event. If you or someone you know, has experienced trauma, this book will assist in his or her healing. The healing that only God can provide.
Bless that someone in your life with a gift of healing and hope.
This book, The Trauma Tree: Going Beyond Survival, Growing Toward Wholeness helps readers to find healing after experiencing a period of suffering, or time when it’s difficult to find joy. “…you have been created with all you need to survive, heal, and grow.”
Healing is possible!
Who can you share this healing resource with?
I highly recommend this book!
Tracy Michaud, author of Broken and Blessed
February 22, 2025
Whether you are walking out of trauma or walking alongside others who are seeking healing from the wounds, betrayals, or traumas of life, this book is truly a transformative and inspirational resource. The stories included throughout each chapter were particularly helpful as they illustrated ways different people process their stories and how their path to wholeness can progress. I was moved by the inspiration, both biblical and contemporary, of those who continued to experience growth and then shared their healing with others. "Trauma does not have to define you." The author comes alongside you in this journey, offering empathy, hope, and help.
February 27, 2025
As someone who has experienced trauma, I can solidly shout out this book for many reasons. The author writes not only out of her personal experience but also out of her professional education and background is a licensed trauma therapist. The chapters are succinct with solid research and practical recommendations. The book leans on wisdom of God’s Word, and the author weaves a meaningful metaphor. I am purchasing several more books for our local crisis pregnancy center. I recommend this highly for anyone who is suffering from fallout from trauma.
February 28, 2025
As a Christian Life Coach with many years in ministry, I know trauma is pervasive among the women I coach and lead.
“The Trauma Tree” is an important book for anyone who wants to gain understanding and compassion for themselves and the women they know and love. Lisa's words are honest, gentle, and illuminating.
Read “The Trauma Tree” for yourself and pass it on to your friends who are coaches, therapists, and ministry leaders. I can't wait to incorporate what I am learning into my coaching.
“The Trauma Tree” is an important book for anyone who wants to gain understanding and compassion for themselves and the women they know and love. Lisa's words are honest, gentle, and illuminating.
Read “The Trauma Tree” for yourself and pass it on to your friends who are coaches, therapists, and ministry leaders. I can't wait to incorporate what I am learning into my coaching.
March 6, 2025
Trauma has become a buzz word that covers experiences ranging from irritating to catastrophic, therefore lending itself to triggering someone or being minimized. Lisa Saruga is authentically real about the effects of trauma while being gentle enough to keep you engaged. By using the story of her pear tree, she is able to walk the reader through the effects and stages of trauma with the goal of coming out stronger and healed. This is a masterfully written book that is a must read for anyone who has experienced trauma or knows someone.
February 16, 2025
Have you ever taken a “Sensory Vacation” or used “Progressive Muscle Relaxation?” Trauma isn’t something we can push aside and pretend it never happened. Lisa Saruga’s book, “The Trauma Tree: Going Beyond Survival, Growing Toward Wholeness” offers practical suggestions to help get you through even an ordinary stressful day. These are just a couple of the beneficial tips that I have found while reading through this treasure.
There is hope to be found beyond the trauma that you’ve experienced.
There is hope to be found beyond the trauma that you’ve experienced.
February 22, 2025
This book gives you practical ways to deal with trauma in faith-based but non-preachy way, very down to earth.. It's well written through the point of view of a professional counselor who is also a trauma survivor.
March 28, 2025
A helpful plain speak guide to reclaim your life post trauma...whether it's a Big T trauma or a Little T trauma. Practical advice from someone who survived her own trauma and found the path to healing. I bought a copy for a dear friend.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews