Below is a collection of books, articles, and media that we believe have effective content for integrating with a Christian understanding of trauma. Please note that CTHN does not fully endorse all the methods, theories, opinions, and beliefs from every author. We encourage you to engage these resources with Spirit-led, prayerful discernment while discussing with others to discover more of God’s truth and wisdom.
General resources on trauma and suffering from Christian authors:
- Suffering and the Heart of God, by Diane Langberg
- Walking with God through Pain and Suffering, by Tim Keller
- A Painful Past: Healing and Moving Forward, by Lauren Whitman
- Try Softer, by Aundi Kolber
- Healing Racial Trauma, by Sheila Wise Rowe
- Restoring the Shattered Self, by Heather Davediuk Gingrich
General resources on trauma from other clinical leaders:
- The Body Keeps the Score, by Bessel van der Kolk
- Trauma and Recovery, by Judith Herman
Books on specific or integrated topics from Christian authors
- The Soul of Shame by Curt Thompson, MD
Topics: Attachment theory, Interpersonal neurobiology, biblical teaching & healing of shame - Anatomy of the Soul by Curt Thompson, MD
Topics: Attachment theory, neuroscience, spiritual practice and repentance - The Power of Attachment, by Diane Poole Heller
Topics: Attachment theory - The Whole-Brain Child, by Daniel Siegel
Topics: Attachment Theory - The Whole Life: 52 Weeks of Biblical Self-Care, by Eliza Huie and Esther Smith
Topic: Self Care - Our Bodies Tell God’s Story, by Christopher West
Topic: Self Care - Something’s Not Right: Decoding the Hidden Tactics of Abuse and Freeing Yourself of its Power, by Wade Mullen
Topic: Spiritual Abuse, Organizational Systems - When Narcissism Comes to Church: Healing Your Community From Emotional and Spiritual Abuse, by Chuck DeGroat
Topic: Spiritual Abuse, Organizational Systems
Check back later for more suggested links!
“The Place We Find Ourselves” (Podcast and App) from Adam Young
Emphasis on attachment theory and healing through story
“How to Spot Spiritual Abuse” (YouTube video) from Wade Mullen
Emphasis on language patterns and church abuse
“Three Ways Trauma Can Change the Brain” (YouTube video, 3 minutes) from Bessell van der Kolk
Quick Assessments on Attachment Style:
http://www.web-research-design.net/cgi-bin/crq/crq.pl
Christian Resources on Attachment Theory and Story:
Adamyoungcounseling.com (resources and handouts)
Check back soon for topical view of various resources.