When It's Trauma: A Biblical Guide to Understanding Trauma and Walking Faithfully with Sufferers

Book Description

Every Sunday, men and women scarred by crises and betrayals worship among us. Our Lord not only calls us to help them but equips us to do so. Out of her careful study of Scripture and years of counseling experience, Darby Strickland has written a comprehensive resource to help counselors, church leaders, and laypeople understand the unique wounds of trauma—and then come alongside sufferers with effective, thoughtful care that shows the love of Christ.

You’ll learn how to

• identify and name common wounds of trauma (physical anguish, shame, hypervigilance, reexperienced trauma, avoidance, faith questions) so people feel understood.
  
• use gentle discovery questions and reflection prompts to listen well, pace your care, and avoid further injuring sufferers.
  
• shape church communities that lament honestly, protect the vulnerable, and patiently encourage restoration and healing.

Also includes reproducible worksheet, guide to medical referrals, and case studies

Author

Darby Strickland counsels and teaches at the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation in Glenside, Pennsylvania. She is the author of a number of works on abuse, trauma, and related topics.

Endorsements

“It’s rare for a book to strike such a beautiful balance between biblical wisdom and practical instruction when addressing a topic as complex as trauma. But Darby Strickland has not only accomplished it—she has provided a resource that acknowledges the full breadth of trauma’s impact, while mining the depths of Christ’s healing presence and power to be found within it.”
—Sarah Walton, Author, Tears and Tossings

“An invaluable resource that is as compassionate as it is comprehensive. When It’s Trauma is more than a book—it is a genuine act of kindness for those of us who desire to walk faithfully alongside sufferers.”
—Chris Moles, Author, The Heart of Domestic Abuse

“A much-needed, Scripture-rich resource that belongs in the hands of every counselor, helper, and church leader. . . . Accessible, deeply insightful, and profoundly thoughtful.”
—Jonathan D. Holmes, Executive Director, Fieldstone Counseling

“This book contains decades of hard-earned wisdom. . . . Darby beautifully brings together theological depth with deeply practical guidance as she speaks into a complex yet crucial topic.”
—Esther Liu, Author, Shame: Being Known and Loved

“This masterful book brings a rich theoretical and biblical understanding of trauma alongside a wonderfully practical wisdom. It is a comprehensive guide that not only describes the many ways that trauma affects a person but also shows what wise Christian care should look like. This is the very best resource for anyone who is seeking to provide compassionate, biblical care for those affected by trauma.”
—Steve Midgley, Executive Director, Biblical Counselling UK

Additional Information

Cover: Softcover
Number of Pages: 312
Publisher: P&R Publishing
Publication Date: 2025