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10 Best PTSD & Trauma Books for 2021

Published: September 14, 2021 Updated: May 7, 2022
Published: 09/14/2021 Updated: 05/07/2022
Headshot of Sandra Calzadilla, LMHC
Written by:

Sandra Calzadilla

LMHC
Headshot of Dena Westphalen, Pharm. D.
Reviewed by:

Dena Westphalen

Pharm. D.
  • The Complex PTSD Workbook: A Mind-Body Approach to Regaining Emotional Control and Becoming Whole, by Arielle Schwartz, Ph.D.1.
  • Loving Someone with PTSD: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Connecting with Your Partner after Trauma, by Aphrodite T. Matsakis, Ph.D.2.
  • The PTSD Workbook: Simple, Effective Techniques for Overcoming Traumatic Stress Symptoms, by Mary Beth Williams, Ph.D., and Soili Poijula, Ph.D.3.
  • Getting Past Your Past: Take Control of Your Life with Self-Help Techniques from EMDR Therapy, by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D.4.
  • What Happened to You?: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing, by Oprah Winfrey and Bruce D. Perry, Ph.D.5.
  • Trauma, PTSD, Grief & Loss: The 10 Core Competencies for Evidence-Based Treatment, by Michael Dubi, Patrick Powell, and Eric Gentry6.
  • It Didn’t Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle, by Mark Wolynn7.
  • Trauma Bonding: How to Stop Feeling Stuck, Overcome Heartache, Anxiety, and PTSD, by Dr. Annely Alexander8.
  • Traumatized: Identify, Understand, and Cope with PTSD and Emotional Stress, Kati Morton, LMFT9.
  • The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook, Revised and Expanded Second Edition: A Guide to Healing, Recovery, and Growth, by Glenn Schiraldi, Ph.D.10.
  • How to Get Help For PTSD & TraumaGet Help
  • Additional ResourcesResources
Headshot of Sandra Calzadilla, LMHC
Written by:

Sandra Calzadilla

LMHC
Headshot of Dena Westphalen, Pharm. D.
Reviewed by:

Dena Westphalen

Pharm. D.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects millions of people after they’ve experienced traumatic or very stressful situations. It can lead to intrusive thoughts and difficult feelings. If you went through a difficult or traumatic event, then you may appreciate one of these books on PTSD.

For our audience’s convenience, we include links to Amazon so recommended books can be easily purchased. Choosing Therapy may earn a commission from Amazon when purchases are made using the links on this page. Read more about our high editorial standards and advertising policy.

The Complex PTSD Workbook: A Mind-Body Approach to Regaining Emotional Control and Becoming Whole, by Arielle Schwartz, Ph.D.1. The Complex PTSD Workbook: A Mind-Body Approach to Regaining Emotional Control and Becoming Whole, by Arielle Schwartz, Ph.D.

This Complex PTSD workbook, which focuses heavily on childhood trauma, gives readers a solid, guided experience for recovery. There are exercises, advice, and impactful journal prompts to help those struggling with their PTSD symptoms. This workbook guides readers into creating positive behaviors.

Loving Someone with PTSD: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Connecting with Your Partner after Trauma, by Aphrodite T. Matsakis, Ph.D.2. Loving Someone with PTSD: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Connecting with Your Partner after Trauma, by Aphrodite T. Matsakis, Ph.D.

Your partner will undoubtedly go through stressful experiences, but what happens when they experience genuine trauma, and now suffer from PTSD? How do you ensure your partner feels loved and safe after experiencing a genuine disaster of some kind?

Dr. Matsakis offers a solution for those whose partners have PTSD. Understand the symptoms, set realistic expectations, and learn to communicate effectively with this guide.

The PTSD Workbook: Simple, Effective Techniques for Overcoming Traumatic Stress Symptoms, by Mary Beth Williams, Ph.D., and Soili Poijula, Ph.D.3. The PTSD Workbook: Simple, Effective Techniques for Overcoming Traumatic Stress Symptoms, by Mary Beth Williams, Ph.D., and Soili Poijula, Ph.D.

If you suffer from painful flashbacks or frightening thoughts about a trauma you suffered, then you’re dealing with PTSD. Trauma experts Mary Beth Williams and Soili Poijula have created a therapist-approved workbook that gives readers a kind hand towards recovery. The techniques and processes outlined in this book are rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy and feature PTSD experts from around the world.

Getting Past Your Past: Take Control of Your Life with Self-Help Techniques from EMDR Therapy, by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D.4. Getting Past Your Past: Take Control of Your Life with Self-Help Techniques from EMDR Therapy, by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D.

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) is known to be a very effective treatment for PTSD. Dr. Shapiro, the championing developer of EMDR therapy, uses this book to get readers familiar with the concept, offer real-life stories, and dives deep into the way our brains work, especially when it comes to personality, memory, and trauma.

This book is a good primer for anyone considering EMDR therapy.

What Happened to You?: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing, by Oprah Winfrey and Bruce D. Perry, Ph.D.5. What Happened to You?: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing, by Oprah Winfrey and Bruce D. Perry, Ph.D.

This collection of interviews and stories by Oprah Winfrey shows what those struggling with PTSD may forget from time to time: they are not alone.

Winfrey partners with renowned brain and trauma expert Bruce D. Perry to take a scientific, but intrinsically human look at several stories of resilience, trauma, and how those who faced incredibly difficult circumstances overcame.

Trauma, PTSD, Grief & Loss: The 10 Core Competencies for Evidence-Based Treatment, by Michael Dubi, Patrick Powell, and Eric Gentry6. Trauma, PTSD, Grief & Loss: The 10 Core Competencies for Evidence-Based Treatment, by Michael Dubi, Patrick Powell, and Eric Gentry

This informative read provides an overview of several treatment options for trauma, PTSD, and more, while diving into symptoms and stressors that can contribute to a difficult PTSD experience.

It Didn't Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle, by Mark Wolynn7. It Didn’t Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle, by Mark Wolynn

Therapist and trauma expert Mark Wolynn argues that your trauma is likely inherited, and understanding how that inheritance plays into our lives – how we think about ourselves, how we react in stressful situations, and more – creates an informed healing process.

This growing field of research indicates that trauma, which we often think of as tied to either a singular event or ongoing abuse, may also be genetic, and that those whose parents, grandparents, or other relatives that went through a traumatic experience pass their trauma to the next generation of the family.

Trauma Bonding: How to Stop Feeling Stuck, Overcome Heartache, Anxiety, and PTSD, by Dr. Annely Alexander 8. Trauma Bonding: How to Stop Feeling Stuck, Overcome Heartache, Anxiety, and PTSD, by Dr. Annely Alexander

If you were in an abusive relationship, or can’t move on from a person you know wasn’t good for you, then you may be trauma-bonded. This occurs when an abusive relationship cycles between abuse and intermittent reward, creating a sense that the person being abused is dependent on the abuser. It can be hard to untangle yourself from that difficult situation and move on with your life, but that’s what Dr. Alexander offers in this comprehensive and informative book.

Traumatized: Identify, Understand, and Cope with PTSD and Emotional Stress, Kati Morton, LMFT9. Traumatized: Identify, Understand, and Cope with PTSD and Emotional Stress, Kati Morton, LMFT

Trauma isn’t always the result of a singular stressful experience. At its core, trauma is just an emotional response to acute stress. This can come from many sources, but the common definition leaves many people confused about why they feel the way they do: “I didn’t go through a traumatic experience, so why am I experiencing these symptoms?”

Therapist Kati Morton tackles this issue – especially in how it affects our social media habits – and offers clear, practical advice to help you recognize emotional stress while understanding how to move forward.

The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook, Revised and Expanded Second Edition: A Guide to Healing, Recovery, and Growth, by Glenn Schiraldi, Ph.D.10. The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook, Revised and Expanded Second Edition: A Guide to Healing, Recovery, and Growth, by Glenn Schiraldi, Ph.D.

This book can be used as both an information resource and a workbook. It has comprehensive information on PTSD, grief, and childhood trauma, as well as techniques, guided practices, and more to help those with PTSD heal. Like many on this list, it shows possible treatment options and self-management techniques for PTSD symptoms.

How to Get Help For PTSD & Trauma

PTSD and trauma can have serious impacts on your life. Recognizing the signs of PTSD is an important first step to getting treatment. Therapy can be an important part of treating this trauma and helping you move on. Find a therapist in your area today.

Additional Resources

Education is just the first step on our path to improved mental health and emotional wellness. To help our readers take the next step in their journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy may be compensated for referrals by the companies mentioned below.

BetterHelp Online Therapy – BetterHelp has over 20,000 licensed therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy. BetterHelp starts at $60 per week. Complete a brief questionnaire and get matched with the right therapist for you. Get Started

Talkspace Online Therapy – Online therapy is convenient with Talkspace. Get therapy for as little as $69 per week, or potentially much less if you have insurance from Cigna, Optum, or UHR. Try Talkspace

Choosing Therapy’s Directory – Find an experienced therapist who is committed to your wellbeing. You can search for a therapist by specialty, availability, insurance, and affordability. Therapist profiles and introductory videos provide insight into the therapist’s personality so you find the right fit. Find a therapist today.

Online Psychiatry & Medication – Answer a few questions and Talkspace will match you with an online prescriber and get you schedules for a live video psychiatry session. Your online psychiatry prescriber will personalize your treatment, which may include psychiatric medication and follow-ups. Get started for $249 or see if your insurance is one many Talkspace accepts. Learn More

Mindfulness & Meditation App – Headspace is an easy way to incorporate mindfulness and meditation into your routine. See for yourself how a few minutes each day can impact your stress levels, mood, and sleep. A monthly subscription for Headspace is only $12.99 per month and comes with a 7-day free trial. Try Headspace

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for referrals by BetterHelp, Talkspace, and Headspace

For Further Reading

  • Looking for a therapist? See if Talkspace or BetterHelp might be a better option for you.
  • Find new books about anxiety and how to mange anxiety symptoms.
  • Harness mindfulness and meditation using apps like Headspace and Calm
  • Learn about stress management in these books.
  • NAMI support groups can be a helpful network to check out.

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Headshot of Sandra Calzadilla, LMHC
Written by:

Sandra Calzadilla

LMHC
Headshot of Dena Westphalen, Pharm. D.
Reviewed by:

Dena Westphalen

Pharm. D.
  • The Complex PTSD Workbook: A Mind-Body Approach to Regaining Emotional Control and Becoming Whole, by Arielle Schwartz, Ph.D.1.
  • Loving Someone with PTSD: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Connecting with Your Partner after Trauma, by Aphrodite T. Matsakis, Ph.D.2.
  • The PTSD Workbook: Simple, Effective Techniques for Overcoming Traumatic Stress Symptoms, by Mary Beth Williams, Ph.D., and Soili Poijula, Ph.D.3.
  • Getting Past Your Past: Take Control of Your Life with Self-Help Techniques from EMDR Therapy, by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D.4.
  • What Happened to You?: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing, by Oprah Winfrey and Bruce D. Perry, Ph.D.5.
  • Trauma, PTSD, Grief & Loss: The 10 Core Competencies for Evidence-Based Treatment, by Michael Dubi, Patrick Powell, and Eric Gentry6.
  • It Didn’t Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle, by Mark Wolynn7.
  • Trauma Bonding: How to Stop Feeling Stuck, Overcome Heartache, Anxiety, and PTSD, by Dr. Annely Alexander8.
  • Traumatized: Identify, Understand, and Cope with PTSD and Emotional Stress, Kati Morton, LMFT9.
  • The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook, Revised and Expanded Second Edition: A Guide to Healing, Recovery, and Growth, by Glenn Schiraldi, Ph.D.10.
  • How to Get Help For PTSD & TraumaGet Help
  • Additional ResourcesResources
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