The Body Keeps The Score

Happy Good/Bad/Ugly Monday everyone! Going to be sharing a few hot takes on some popular therapy resources out there, because there are soooo many out there...it can get a bit overwhelming!

If you agree/ strongly disagree with this post please feel free to share in the comments- our opinions are not the be all end all! 🔥

We will start off with maybe the most well known and recommended book in trauma recovery circles- no doubt if you are reading this caption you have probably read this book ( or have heard so much about it you feel like you have).

So starting with the GOOD: This book breaks down Dr. Van der Kolk's early work with Vietnam war veterans and trauma survivors, which pioneered how the world understands the impact of chronic traumatic stress on the brain and body. Lots of hardcore data in this book backing up the groundbreaking theories.

The Bad: While informative , this book is absolutely loaded with graphic content and short epitaphs that Van Der Kolk recounts from his work with trauma survivors. This is a very heavy read and not a great choice if you are in a working stage of therapy as it can be very triggering and upsetting. Often we hear that clients in early stages of therapy considered the book to be overwhelming and a bit unorganized. 🥴

The ugly: It is also worth addressing the fact that Van der Kolk was removed from his position at his own trauma treatment center for accusations of creating a hostile work environment for his female employees.

Our take away: A book filled with important information, but best read slowly and carefully, if at all. The final quarter of the book focuses on healing methods and strategies for next step, which we recommend to start on if you are brand new in your healing journey or just looking for a calmer read. 🌿