Introduction

Abstract

This chapter provides an introduction to the role, purpose, and function of Healing Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Clinician’s Guide. It begins by grounding the term complex trauma, which is used to describe chronic traumatization, for instance, the experience of multiple and/or prolonged developmentally adverse traumatic events, most often of an interpersonal nature. Complex trauma is the result of chronic, prolonged, and repeated trauma arising from childhood abuse, neglect, and/or exposure to domestic violence. Subsequently this chapter explains how and why this book may be helpful in enhancing your clinical practice. Finally, this chapter provides a brief overview of the subject matter covered in each of the subsequent chapters. By reading this book, you will become more familiar with the integrative healing techniques and modalities that are currently being utilized as evidence-based treatments. In addition, you will develop a language for, understanding of, and deeper compassion toward the pain you are witnessing.