Psychotherapist Cori (The Tao of Contemplation: Re-Sourcing the Inner Life
) translates the dark language of trauma in this primer of agony and recovery, with a deep understanding of the tortuous journey many suffer after sexual assault, war, violence and childhood abuse. Skillfully, she avoids the bevy of usual tales of misery found in self-help books on trauma, focusing instead on the resilience of the spirit, regaining control and resuming a renewed life. Very timely and informative, Cori's guidebook includes a long segment on PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder), recognizing the emotional and moral conflicts faced by troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and attempting to reintegrate into society. The author offers solid information on types of trauma disorders and stresses the importance of selecting caring, sensitive health practitioners and therapists as critical to speed the healing quest (she offers sensible specifics on choosing a therapist). Concluding with her own story as an incest survivor (based on recovered memories), the book is a compact, knowing work of atonement, grace, compassion and healing. (Nov.)
