Coping With Trauma-Related Dissociation ─ Skills Training for Patients and Their Therapists

In this manual for patients and therapists, Boon, a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist in the Netherlands, et al. explain skills training during the first phase of treatment for those suffering from dissociative disorders as a result of trauma, including dissociative identity disorder and dissociative disorder not otherwise specified. They first overview dissociation and its symptoms, then specific skills for working with individuals and groups to manage it by learning to reflect; understanding and regulating emotions; challenging dysfunctional thoughts; coping with anger, fear, shame, and guilt; managing triggers; learning to cope with the desire to self-harm; and taking small steps to improve relationships with others. They provide exercises for healthier daily routines, a guide for group trainers, and homework sheets. The manual is partly based on experiences with outpatient day treatment programs in the Netherlands. Annotation c2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)