Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving

Note to self:

•4.5 stars

•Listened to the Audiobook

•Want to purchase a physical copy

•Great in depth reference of the four different trauma responses (4F: fight, flight, fawn, and freeze) and how they impact those with CPTSD throughout their lives; the best exploration I've ever come across

•Shares how survivors can recover from the 4F response being set off by flashbacks (conscious or unconscious) which tend harm themselves and others

•Wonderful resource on learning to tame the inner and outer critic

•A strong focus on placing the onus on the internalized neglectful and abusive parents; survivors are not defective and never deserved the maltreatment they endured

•Likely best for survivors who have already explored some foundational CPTSD work/therapy or education; a worthy addition to a therapist's collection

I read a lot of psychology-focused books in my work as a therapist, and this was one of the BEST I have ever come across. Informative enough for a clinician, straight-forward enough for a survivor, and packed with empathy and encouragement.

Extraordinarily helpful and practical. Truly life-changing. -1 star for sloppy editing and formatting.