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

The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk is the landmark #1 New York Times bestseller that has transformed how clinicians, survivors, and the public understand psychological trauma. Drawing on more than three decades of research and clinical work with trauma survivors — including combat veterans, abused children, and victims of accidents and assault — Dr. van der Kolk shows how trauma literally reshapes the brain and body, affecting the survivor's capacity for pleasure, engagement, self-control, and trust.

The book exposes the limits of conventional talk-therapy and medication approaches and presents a wide range of evidence-informed treatments — including neurofeedback, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), somatic therapies, yoga, mindfulness, theater, and play — that activate the brain's natural neuroplasticity to help survivors reclaim their lives.

Written with the clarity of a leading scientist and the warmth of a deeply experienced clinician, The Body Keeps the Score is essential reading for trauma survivors, family members, mental health professionals, primary care clinicians, educators, and anyone interested in the science of recovery and resilience.

A modern classic in mental health and trauma-informed care.