Metamorphosis of Trauma uncovers the nature of primary trauma and its purpose from a descriptive and explanatory framework. Featuring insight gained from the author as the wife of a Native American healer, the book establishes foundational tenets from the Lakota culture and features alternative perspectives that contribute to the explanation of primary trauma, as well as approaches to combat it's deleterious impact.

The book takes readers on a guided exploration of their personal perceptions of primary trauma—its initial appearance, the conditions for it, its original character and related characteristics, and the functions for its existence. Readers learn how to change negative perceptions of primary trauma and reduce the impact of primary trauma before it transforms into a chronic, complex issue.

Over the course of eight chapters, readers discover common responses to primary trauma, its benefits from a Native American system view of trauma, the importance and process of change, steps to establishing a trauma-resistant culture, and more.

Metamorphosis of Trauma is part of the Cognella Series on Advances in Culture, Race, and Ethnicity. The series, endorsed by Division 45 of the American Psychological Association, addresses critical and emerging issues within culture, race, and ethnic studies, as well as specific topics among key ethnocultural groups.