Group Approaches to Treating Traumatic Stress

“This handbook is much needed. Group psychotherapy is widely used, yet underestimated and under-researched. After providing a concise guide to the basic principles of group treatment, the book presents the major evidence-based and evidence-informed group therapies for traumatic stress. Session-by-session descriptions are illustrated by well-chosen case examples. Contributors also discuss such important topics as the specifics of providing group therapy virtually, vicarious trauma exposure, and the need for self-care. This book is a pleasure to read. It belongs on the shelf (or even on the nightstand!) of every clinician who conducts group interventions with traumatized people.”

—Ulrich Schnyder, MD, Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich, Switzerland


“This book fills a critical gap in the literature. Ruzek and colleagues have assembled leading investigators of evidence-based treatments for traumatic stress who provide comprehensive and empirically grounded information on group approaches in the area. This book is a valuable resource for providers and trainees in the fields of psychology, psychiatry, and social work.”

—Denise M. Sloan, PhD, Associate Director, Behavioral Science Division, National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine


“A great addition to any trauma therapist's reading list. This is the first book I have seen that provides a comprehensive overview of group treatments for traumatic stress. The book's inclusion of multiple evidence-based treatment modalities and its focus on accessibility and equity make it a staple resource. This book will serve as an excellent text for graduate courses or clinical reference for practitioners.”

—Melanie D. Hetzel-Riggin, PhD, LP, Professor of Psychology and Director, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Penn State Erie, The Behrend College


“The editors have done a fantastic job of assembling experts in the field to write on all aspects of group work with populations that have experienced trauma. I appreciate the book's readability and applicability. I would use this book as a primary text in a group or trauma counseling course, to highlight the intricacies of trauma and the practical use of group process in trauma-focused treatment.”

—Anthony Rivas, EdD, LMFT, LAC, MAC, Master's Program in Counselor Education, California State University, Sacramento


“This unprecedented book provides state-of-the-art answers about why group therapy should be provided for various trauma types and clinical contexts. It describes what the current manualized evidence-informed procedures and heuristics are for clinicians who want to learn group therapy or enhance their practice. And it demonstrates how group therapy uniquely helps traumatized people not only to manage various PTSD symptoms, but also to broaden and build interpersonal skills, faith in humanity, belonging, trust, and empathy. A 'must read' for trainees, practitioners, supervisors, and clinical researchers.”

—Brett T. Litz, PhD, Director, Mental Health Core, Massachusetts Veterans Epidemiological Research and Information Center, VA Boston Healthcare System; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine