You Are Not Your Trauma

Robyn D. Walser, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, educator, and author of several influential books on ACT for professionals and general readers. She is Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of California, Berkeley, and Director of Research at Bay Area Trauma Recovery Clinical Services. She is also on the staff of the National Center for PTSD at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System. Internationally known for her compassionate, client-centered approach, Dr. Walser has been working in the field of trauma and conducting the ACT training internationally since the 1990s.Darrah Westrup, PhD, is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Durango, Colorado, where she specializes in helping clients find freedom from complex trauma and other challenging conditions. She has conducted ACT trainings and workshops worldwide since 2001 and is the author of acclaimed books on ACT for professionals and general readers. Dr. Westrup has served as Director of both the Women’s Mental Health Center and the Women’s Trauma Recovery Program at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System.

"Although I've done well in life, I still experience lingering effects of childhood trauma. The approach in this book has truly helped me to heal. I have learned how to doubt myself less and let in uncomfortable feelings that I once avoided. I now see myself for who I truly am--and my trauma doesn’t define me."--Rachel W., California"This book has been instrumental in helping me process trauma. It gave me practical guidance and insights I could immediately use. Drs. Walser and Westrup beautifully describe present-minded, value-centered steps to create a meaningful life despite trauma."--Jennie A., Colorado“I am moved by this book's bold and compassionate message: 'You are more than your trauma.' This book is an essential companion for anyone ready to turn toward their pain with courage and reclaim a life of meaning and wholeness. It is a gift to the world."--Steven C. Hayes, PhD, author of Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life"An exceptionally thoughtful, compassionate, and empowering guide to working through traumatic experiences and discovering your inner resiliency. At each step along the way, Drs. Walser and Westrup offer moving stories and practical skills for forging a life full of meaning and belonging."--Victoria Lemle Beckner, PhD, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco"Amid the many books on trauma available today, this evidence-based guide stands out for its solid scientific foundation and proven approach. The authors' compassionate expertise shines through every page, making healing feel accessible and achievable."--Louise Hayes, PhD, coauthor of What Makes You Stronger-

• IntroductionStage 1. Safety and Skills Building: Living More Fully in the Here and Now1. What Is Trauma Fallout?2. What Is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?3. Identifying Your Values4. Identifying Your Barriers5. Opening to Emotional Experience6. Cultivating Mindfulness and Present-Moment Awareness7. Creating Distance from Traumatic Thoughts8. Getting to Know Your SelfStage 2. Planned Exposure to the Trauma: Facing Your Trauma to Regain Control of Your Life9. Preparing for Exposure Work10. Completing a Written ExposureStage 3. Reconnection to the Here and Now through Values: Building Resilience, Overcoming Obstacles, and Engaged Living11. Taking Committed Action12. Building Resilience13. Overcoming Life’s Obstacles14. Maintaining Long-Term HealingAudio Downloads1. Your Values as Expressed by Others (6:00)2. Witnessing Your Emotion (8:00)3. Observing Your Thoughts as Clouds (10:00)4. Present Moment Awareness of the Body (23:00)5. Present Moment Awareness of the Breath (10:00)6. Observing the Ongoing Flow of Thinking (9:00)7. Physicalizing Thoughts (9:00)8. Contacting the You (7:00)9. Mountain Meditation (10:00)10. Building Self Compassion (11:00)11. A Values-Based Life Formed by Committed Actions (10:00)12. Attending to Your Feelings (9:00)