Resources on
Trauma, Abuse, and Christian Faith

For Further Reading

 

The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
Bessel Van der Kolk

This landmark guide by one of the most trusted names in traumatology details trauma’s neurophysiological impact. Helps the church not to over-spiritualize posttraumatic stress and to understand better the suffering of trauma survivors.

Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence—From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror
Judith Herman

A trauma classic, charting the impact of trauma and providing a basic map for recovery. Covers such global catastrophes as war as well as personal catastrophes like sexual abuse.

Why Love Matters: How Affection Shapes a Baby’s Brain
Sue Gerhardt

A non-technical book showing what happens when children don’t get what they need to develop psychologically. Links the neuropsychological damage of emotional deprivation with the known impact of abuse.

Hush: Moving from Silence to Healing After Childhood Sexual Abuse
Nicole Braddock Bromley

Narrates both the author’s story and stories of students to whom she ministered. Speaks directly to the issues with which many sexual abuse survivors in universities and colleges struggle.

Am I a Good Girl Yet? Childhood Abuse Had Shattered Her. Could She Ever Be Whole?
Carolyn Bramhall

A victim of satanic abuse reveals the dissociative nightmare of extreme trauma. Her personal story of recovered faith and relationships shows that victims can recover.

Living From The Heart Jesus Gave You
James Wilder

A practical vision of how the church can be committed to the abused. Much godly wisdom on such things as boundaries and healthy relationships.

Presence and Encounter: The Sacramental Possibilities of Everyday Life
David Benner

An approach to wholeness in body, mind and spirit showing how we can grow more connected in relationships with God, self, and others.