Healing with Trauma-Focused DBT: A Trauma Survivor’s Guide to Manage Intense Emotions and Reclaim Your Life with Polyvagal Theory and Dialectical Behavior Therapy

by Kirby Reutter

184 pages, Paperback

Published January 2, 2026

Reviews

[Mariah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a helpful introductory read for individuals who are new to DBT, as it presents key concepts in a clear and approachable way. That said, the presence of recurring spelling errors and typos made the book feel less polished.

[Mike Leman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kirby Reutter has a way of sneaking simplicity and clarity into the most complex psychological concepts. I opened this book in the middle of a busy workday to get a sense of what it was about and unexpectedly read it through to the end without stopping. Dr. Reutter writes just as comfortably as he speaks, presenting DBT exercises that are effective and practical. His self-deprecation and gentle wit make difficult truths easy to absorb. From ancient philosophical views of the tensions in life to the most current brain science, Healing with Trauma-Focused DBT brings understanding and hope to some of life’s most difficult experiences, ultimately equipping the reader for growth.

[Henry Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Healing with Trauma-Focused DBT is a compassionate, empowering guide that truly understands how trauma lives in both the mind and body. By skillfully blending DBT with polyvagal theory, Kirby Reutter offers practical tools that feel grounding, accessible, and deeply validating. The exercises gently guide you toward emotional balance while helping your nervous system feel safe again. This book doesn’t just explain healing it walks alongside you through it. A must-read for anyone ready to reclaim peace, stability, and a fuller life.

[Emmanuel Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a thoughtful and reassuring companion for anyone healing from trauma. Healing with Trauma-Focused DBT beautifully integrates DBT skills with polyvagal theory in a way that feels practical and humane. The guidance is clear, compassionate, and deeply grounding, addressing both emotional and physical symptoms of trauma. Each chapter offers tools that help you feel safer in your body and steadier in your emotions. An empowering resource that meets you where you are and gently helps you move forward.

[Emmanuel Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a lifeline for trauma survivors! Dr. Reutter's integration of DBT and polyvagal theory is nothing short of brilliant addressing not just the emotional wounds but the physical imprints trauma leaves on our nervous systems. The four DBT skills are presented in such an approachable way, and the somatic techniques actually help me feel safe in my own body again. If you're exhausted from living in fight-or-flight mode, this compassionate, evidence-based guide will show you the way home to yourself

[Frances · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book feels like having a wise, steady guide sitting beside you through the healing process. Dr. Kirby Reutter beautifully bridges the science of polyvagal theory with the practical power of DBT, making complex ideas accessible and deeply empowering. What sets this book apart is its respect for both the mind and the body acknowledging that trauma lives in both. The exercises are clear, compassionate, and immediately useful. A groundbreaking resource for anyone ready to reclaim their emotional balance and inner safety.

[Melissa Kendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is exactly what I didn't know I needed. The combination of DBT skills and polyvagal practices creates such a complete healing approach I finally understand why my body reacts the way it does. Dr. Reutter's compassionate tone makes difficult work feel manageable, and the practical exercises are incredibly grounding. Five stars doesn't feel like enough for a book that's truly helping me find peace after years of struggle

[Liam Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A breakthrough in trauma healing! Dr. Reutter has created something truly innovative by bridging evidence-based DBT with cutting-edge nervous system science. The exercises are practical, the explanations are clear, and the compassion radiates from every page. Whether you're dealing with flashbacks, anxiety, or physical symptoms, this guide offers real tools for real healing. Highly recommend to anyone ready to move beyond survival mode!

[Ronald Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Healing with Trauma-Focused DBT is a rare blend of clinical excellence and heartfelt understanding. It doesn’t just explain trauma it offers a roadmap out of survival mode. The integration of nervous system science with DBT skills is practical, hopeful, and refreshingly actionable. Readers walk away not just informed, but equipped. This is more than a therapy workbook; it’s a restoration manual for the nervous system and the spirit.

[Frank Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, a trauma guide that truly understands the body’s role in healing. Dr. Reutter translates polyvagal theory into techniques that feel grounding and doable, while the DBT framework provides structure and strength. The tone is validating without being overwhelming, and the tools foster resilience rather than dependency. A powerful, forward-thinking resource for survivors seeking both stability and growth.

[Rosalba Lorenz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book stands out in the crowded trauma-recovery space because it is both science-based and deeply compassionate. The combination of mindfulness, distress tolerance, and nervous system regulation creates a holistic path toward healing. It speaks directly to those who feel stuck in hypervigilance or emotional intensity and gently shows that change is possible. Thoughtful, empowering, and practical an essential addition to trauma-informed literature.

[Sophie West · Rating 5 out of 5]

Healing with Trauma-Focused DBT by Kirby Reutter is a powerful and compassionate guide for trauma survivors. The blend of DBT skills and polyvagal theory makes healing feel practical and achievable. I loved how clearly the nervous system is explained. The exercises are simple yet deeply effective. This book truly helps you feel safe in your own body again.

[Kiera Hodgson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book beautifully combines science and heart. Kirby Reutter offers real tools for managing intense emotions and calming the nervous system. The DBT skills are easy to apply in daily life. I felt understood and supported on every page. A must-read for anyone on a healing journey.

[Karen Trevino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, a trauma book that addresses both mind and body. Kirby Reutter makes complex concepts feel accessible and empowering. The polyvagal techniques were especially helpful for my anxiety. Practical, validating, and transformative. I highly recommend it.