Working with Complexity in PTSD

by Hannah Murray, Sharif El-Leithy

This accessible, evidence-based book provides readers with a practical framework to understand, formulate, and treat PTSD using the cognitive model while creatively adapting for complexity. Cognitive therapy for PTSD is a highly effective treatment, but aspects of clinical complexity can complicate treatment and limit its effectiveness. Trauma memories themselves can be complex, the associated meanings can resist change and people may struggle to engage with them without feeling overwhelmed. Problems that commonly arise alongside PTSD add to clinical complexity, such as comorbid psychological or physical disorders, social problems, and ongoing risks. Bringing together the science and art of therapy, this book demonstrates how to approach these issues by holding firm to the principles of CBT, whilst flexing and creatively adapting techniques for each unique circumstance. Rich case studies, top tips, and frequently asked questions are used throughout to demonstrate the approach. Written by clinicians for clinicians, the book synthesizes the latest research into a practical treatment manual to help readers overcome obstacles in PTSD treatment and ‘supercharge’ their therapy skills.

348 pages, Paperback

Published July 14, 2022

About the author

Hannah has been reading romance novels since she was young enough to have to hide them from her mother, and decided to try her hand at writing one when she realized the book she really wanted to read lived in her head. That was a dozen years and as many manuscripts ago, and there are still more stories to be told.

She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband—former Special Forces and an OR nurse who writes fantasy fiction, and acts as In House Expert for his wife on matters pertaining to weapons, tactics, the military, medical conditions and How Dudes Think—and their daughter, who takes after her father.

Hannah loves to hear from readers, and will answer questions here on Goodreads.