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An Autobiography of Trauma

A Healing Journey

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An Autobiography of Trauma

By: Peter A. Levine
Narrated by: Christopher Salazar
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About this listen

 “A personal and revealing...memoir from a trailblazing therapist.”—Kirkus Reviews

• Shares the author’s personal journey to heal his severe childhood trauma as well as his breakthroughs on the path to create Somatic Experiencing

• Explores how he came to view Einstein as his personal spirit guide and mentor, only to discover a profound real-life connection to him through his mother

• Explains how the SE method is derived from the author’s studies of animals in their natural environments, neurobiology, and 50 years of clinical observations

In this intimate memoir, renowned developer of Somatic Experiencing, Peter A. Levine—the man who changed the way psychologists, doctors, and healers understand and treat the wounds of trauma and abuse—shares his personal journey to heal his own severe childhood trauma and offers profound insights into the evolution of his innovative healing method.

Casting himself as a modern-day Chiron, the wounded healer of Greek mythology, Levine describes, in graphic detail, the violence of his childhood juxtaposed with specific happy memories and how being guided through Somatic Experiencing (SE) allowed him to illuminate and untangle his traumatic wounds. He also shares the mysterious and unexpected dreams and visions that have guided him through his life’s work, including his dreamlike visitations from Albert Einstein, whom he views as his personal spirit guide and mentor.

Explaining how he helped thousands of others before resolving his own trauma, he details how the SE method is derived from his studies of wild animals in their natural environments, neurobiology, and more than 50 years of clinical observations. Levine teaches us that anyone suffering from trauma has a valuable story to tell, and that by telling our stories, we can catalyze the return of hope, dignity, and wholeness. Medical Mental Health Personal Development Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders Professionals & Academics Psychology Psychology & Mental Health

Critic reviews

“This book is a peek behind the curtain of one of the greatest leaders of our time in the fields of spirituality and psychology. An Autobiography of Trauma is a powerfully transparent, knowledge-drenched, and generous invitation into the personal world of a man who birthed one of the most impactful models of trauma healing of all time. I felt giddy beholding his story of emergence, persistence, resilience, and leadership. This book moved me to apply Peter’s awareness and perception to my own ongoing and deepening personal practice of returning to wholeness. Peter’s work fosters healing, cohesion, and a ‘coming home’ to who we were each born to be.”
“Peter Levine is a wise and kind pioneer of somatic therapies who has been a beacon for clinicians all over the world for understanding and dealing with the physical imprints of traumatic stress.”
“A valedictory ode to humanity penned by one of the seminal trauma pioneers and master healers of the past half century, this book is the account of a remarkable soul journey from searing pain to joy, from self-hatred to selflove. Its every page is infused with poetic eloquence, dramatic story-telling, unsparing honesty, and touching vulnerability. Prepare to be enchanted and to be instructed and, above all, prepare to be moved.”
“A brave, self-revealing memoir of a man and his journey into wholeness. Levine intimately recounts the traumas and experiences that helped shape his legacy.”
“This intimate and authentic memoir by Peter Levine, the developer of Somatic Experiencing, may serve as inspiration for all of us in our healing journeys.”
“I was so deeply touched by Peter Levine’s story of facing severe violence and trauma as a child and how he transformed these wounds, restoring psyche, body, and soul. I am moved by his grace and authenticity in how he used his own deep wounding to help countless people around the world to heal from their wounds. After the first page, I could not put the book down as I accompanied him, as Chiron the wounded healer, on his healing journey. What I also found fascinating was his ‘conversations’ with Albert Einstein as an inner ‘spirit guide,’ a virtual mentor on his quest for knowledge, wisdom, wholeness, and connection.”
All stars
Most relevant
So well written. I particularly liked the part regarding the Navajo First Nation soldiers who were in the 2nd world war and how they ensured their trauma was dealt with before they returned to their family after combat. Fascinating stuff throughout the book. The author is so knowledgeable and yet so humble.

Incredible book

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I did not get on with the narrator. It sounded really forced and the intonation just didn’t seem natural which can be really off putting. The content was amazing though, I just wish I could have read the book instead! Amazing insights into Peter Levine’s own life and the origins of SE. Particularly enjoyed his explorations into other cultures and how trauma is held with importance.

Amazing honest insight into Peter Levine’s own life

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Good read great resources
Give it a go!!
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I have to write 15 words apparently , thought I had, but obviously not
Please let me out of this screen so I can read another book

Informative

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Incredible account of Peter Levine’s lived experience and how Somatic experiencing came about. A lifetime achievement from a modern day Prophet.

An excellent and compelling listen

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