LACPA’s Summer Book Club Selection:

The Body Keeps the Score:
Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma

by Bessel van der Kolk,M.D.

Book Summary

Written in 2014, with the rise in promising neuro-informed somatic approaches to psychotherapy, especially for trauma, The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk has become a classic. It has been on the weekly NY Times bestseller list for 5 years and is part of much public discourse, sometimes well-informed and sometimes misinformed, about trauma, types of therapy and/or self-help interventions, and expected outcomes. Dr. van der Kolk is an acknowledged expert in the treatment of PTSD and complex PTSD. He has developed a brain-based trauma model and related treatments to improve environmental and social engagement, potential for pleasure, interpersonal trust, and capacity for self-regulation in people significantly affected by trauma. It has many parallels to other neuro-informed therapeutic approaches, including Porges’ polyvagal theory, and Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB). Whether you are reading it for the first time, or re-reading it, it offers useful insights and inroads to the treatment of the many layers of traumatic experience.

Continued Professional Development (CPD)

Book Club discussions of The Body Keeps the Score would, in my opinion, qualify for Continued Professional Development (CPD), under the Peer Consultation category, as required for the Board of Psychology (BOP) licensure renewal in 2024. This is based on the following a statement by Mr. Jason Glasspiegel of the BOP: “The discussions should focus on maintaining, developing, or increasing conceptual and applied competencies that are relevant to the licensee’s individual psychological practice, education, or science.” Each attendee decides if a particular book discussion fits this standard and is solely responsible for keeping their own BOP documentation. Please direct any questions to the BOP; Neither LACPA nor I are responsible for providing such information.

Sample of many positive reviews by well-known mental health professionals on Amazon

“Breathtaking in its scope and breadth, The Body Keeps the Score is a seminal work by one of the preeminent pioneers in trauma research and treatment. This essential book unites the evolving neuroscience of trauma research with an emergent wave of body-oriented therapies and traditional mind/body practices that go beyond symptom relief and connect us with our vital energy and here-and-now presence.”
—Peter A. Levine, Ph.D.

“In this inspirational work which seamlessly weaves keen clinical observation, neuroscience, historical analysis, the arts, and personal narrative, Dr. van der Kolk has created an authoritative guide to the effects of trauma, and pathways to recovery. The book is full of wisdom, humanity, compassion and scientific insight, gleaned from a lifetime of clinical service, research and scholarship in the field of traumatic stress. A must read for mental health and other health care professionals, trauma survivors, their loved ones, and those who seek clinical, social, or political solutions to the cycle of trauma and violence in our society.”
—Rachel Yehuda, Ph.D., Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY

“When it comes to understanding the impact of trauma and being able to continue to grow despite overwhelming life experiences, Bessel van der Kolk leads the way in his comprehensive knowledge, clinical courage, and creative strategies to help us heal. The Body Keeps the Score is a cutting-edge offering for the general reader to comprehend the complex effects of trauma, and a guide to a wide array of scientifically informed approaches to not only reduce suffering, but to move beyond mere survival—and to thrive.”
—Daniel J. Siegel, M.D., Clinical Professor, UCLA School of Medicine

Please RSVP directly to the Book Club facilitator

Santa Clarita - Saturday, July 20th at 10:00 AM
This will be an In Person meeting at the home of Dr. Janet Stier
Address will be provided upon RSVP
RSVP to Dr. Lynne Steinman
[email protected]
(661) 259-0144

Westside
Sunday, August 18th at 3:00 PM
Hosted by Dr. Cris Scaglione
[email protected]
(949) 939-1943

Encino
Sunday, August 25th at 3:00 PM
Hosted by Dr. Pamela McCrory
[email protected]
(818) 999- 4126

Join us for great discussions with fellow LACPA members!

Amy Rosett, Ph.D.
PSY 13380
Book Club Leader, LACPA

16055 Ventura Blvd., Suite 720
Encino, CA 91436
818.705.1870
www.dramyrosett.com

"The opinions of presenters at informal forums, such as Special Interest Groups (SIGs) or club meetings, and their approach to psychological issues and interventions do not represent a formal endorsement of any position by the Los Angeles County Psychological Association or its members. The opinions, ideas, and concepts expressed are purely those of the presenter."