Traumatic experiences can leave an indelible impression on those involved; one which the person may suppress or re-live with destructive and troubling consequences. For many traumatized individuals, the essence of their trauma is deeply emotional: terror, anger, anxiety.

Colin Wastell interprets the modern understanding of the traumatic process and presents his own model based on extensive research. He examines the role of emotion in human function and in particular its role in the experience of trauma and effective trauma treatment.

Wastell's approach is grounded in practical treatment and the way emotion-focused therapy can be used to benefit the therapist and client. Using extensive case studies and making clear links between theory and practice, Wastell presents an innovative practice manual for the counsellor and psychologist interested both in trauma treatment and human emotion. These principles for understanding trauma will also assist health professionals, including nurses, doctors, ambulance officers, social workers and police officers, to help their clients.