What to read next as recommended by our therapists - The body keeps the score by Bessel van der Kolk

book review
Written By Carol Yan | Counselling Psychologist
 
 

The Body Keeps The Score By Bessel Van Der Kolk

“Mind, brain and body in the transformation of trauma”

A beautiful narrative and deep-dive explanation of the complexities of trauma and how it can be stored in, have profound impact, and consume the body. Renowned trauma expert, Bessel van der Kolk, tells his story of his time spent over three decades working with Veterans.

He transforms our understanding of complex traumatic stress, revealing how it literally rearranges the brain’s wiring. He shows how these areas can be reactivated through innovative treatments including neurofeedback, mindfulness techniques, play, yoga, and other therapies - a way to reclaim lives after the gripping impact of trauma.

Please keep in mind that we may receive a commission when you click on our links and make a purchase. This, however, has no bearing on our reviews or recommendations.

See more from the blog

Blog
The Path to a More Fulfilling and Balanced Life with Schema Therapy

Unlock personal growth with schema therapy. This holistic approach addresses deep-rooted beliefs and patterns that shape your behaviour. Discover how schema therapy can help you overcome negative thoughts, destructive behaviours, and relationship difficulties. Explore tailored strategies for positive change and build resilience for a more balanced, fulfilling life. Start your journey to self-discovery and empowerment today.

What to read next: What My Bones Know by Stephanie Foo

In What My Bones Know, Stephanie Foo delves into her journey of healing from complex PTSD. Through raw and honest storytelling, Foo uncovers the impact of prolonged trauma and explores the challenging, non-linear path to recovery. Her memoir offers hope and a testament to resilience.

Transforming Insecurity into Connection: A Journey Through Cultivating Your Community

Facing the challenge of vulnerability in connections, this post explores how past experiences shape our emotional landscape. Discover how to overcome insecurities, embrace authenticity, and build deeper, more meaningful relationships. Learn to navigate and transform your internal terrain.

Helping our young humans deal with death: A guide for parents & caregivers

Navigating loss and grief is a challenge, even for adults. For children, it's often confusing and overwhelming. As a caregiver, while you can't shield them from the pain of loss, you can provide stability and open communication. Encourage them to express their feelings freely and reassure them that it’s normal to feel sad, angry, or confused. This support is crucial in helping them feel safe and understood during such difficult times.

Beyond Therapy: Embracing RECBT as a Guiding Life Philosophy

Ever wondered how much of your daily stress is shaped not by what happens to you, but by your reactions to these events? Albert Ellis's pioneering Rational Emotive & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (RECBT) posits that our emotional disturbances aren't triggered by events themselves but by our beliefs about them. Dive into the core of RECBT and discover how adopting this transformative life philosophy can significantly alter your perception, reactions, and overall happiness. Explore how simple shifts in thinking can lead to profound changes in living.

Post-Pandemic Parenting: Helping Children Overcome Anxiety
Love in the time of scrum

Navigate the highs and lows of relationship dynamics during the 2023 Rugby World Cup with our comprehensive guide. From balancing TV schedules to understanding your partner's rugby passion, we offer practical tips for both the fanatic and the less enthused. Keep your love strong whether you're a Springbok supporter or just along for the ride.

Talk the Talk: Unraveling the Mystery of Communication in Relationships
Home Sweet (New) Home: Navigating the Emotional Journey of Moving and Renovating
What to read next: Scattered Minds by Gabor Maté

Explore one creative professional's personal journey with ADHD. From early suspicions and meeting an inspiring mentor to diagnosis, medication, and self-discovery through literature, this candid reflection offers insights into living with ADHD. Whether you suspect you have ADHD or know someone who does, this account provides valuable understanding and encouragement.

The World in Their Hands - The Opportunities that Come with Raising Children in a Multilingual Home
The ins and outs of relationship therapy

Relationship therapy, traditionally known as couples therapy, offers those within a romantic relationship the opportunity to develop the quality of their relationship. It provides partners a safe space where they can process hurt or unfinished business and develop the communication skills necessary to negotiate life’s challenges as a team.

There’s an expectation that we should all know intuitively how to have healthy, loving relationships, but the truth is we don’t. We try our best but often get stuck in cycles of conflict. The same pattern repeats over and over and no matter how hard you both try - you can’t get out of it. It is draining and can leave you feeling defeated.

New Year’s resolutions: a short guide to being kind to yourself
What to read next as recommended by our therapists - Waking up by Sam Harris
Golf: The edge of a winning mind-set
Teddy Bear Therapy By Charl Vorster and Larissa Ernst
Carol on ‘Life with Karabo’
The harm of Sharenting - by Roxanne Zwart
Carol Yan | Counselling Psychologist

Carol Yan is a Counselling Psychologist practicing from the Satori Health Centre. She practices online.
She is a South African expat who moved to The Netherlands as a trailing spouse in 2021. With this new adventure her practice moved exclusively online and she works with clients across the globe. She is passionate about assisting third culture kids, as well as adult individuals and couples within expat or international communities. She also uses brain-based and somatic techniques to assist after traumatic experiences.

https://www.carolyanpsychology.com/
Previous

What to read next as recommended by our therapists - 12 Birds to Save Your Life: Nature’s Lessons in Happiness by Charlie Corbett
Next

What to read next as recommended by our therapists - All My Friends Are Invisible: A Memoir By Jonathan Joly