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Book Review: Healing for Trauma in the South African Context Author: Yvonne Retief

With the high incidence of violence, divorce and other forms of trauma in South Africa, most people have experienced some form of trauma in their lives.


Healing for Trauma helps us understand what trauma is and

provides practical counselling skills for recovery.


The book is an in-depth, comprehensive guide for both trauma counsellors and victims. This revised, updated edition also addresses the impact of Covid-19.


Individual healing has a ripple effect on the community as a whole, and therefore benefits everyone.

There is healing and hope for victims of trauma!







Reviewed by:

Yvette Mc Alpine


Tell us a bit about yourself:

Hello, I am Yvette Mc Alpine and I have been married for 26 years. I have two daughters ages 23 and 20. After navigating my fair share of life obstacles and challenges, I have developed a passion for those who find themselves in a similar place. In 2021 I received my BA (Health Sciences and Social Services) in Psychological Counselling and I have received my Honours Degree in Psychology in 2023. I am a Counsellor and Life Coach and I am in partnership with The Wellbeing Institute. ​ I am a people's person, desire to see people change for the better. I want to help them reach their full potential and see them grow, change and move forward. ​ I strive to help people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. Life's too short to be unhappy, unsure, or unfulfilled. I am here to help my clients achieve a more positive outlook on life, and provide them with all the tools necessary to get them there. Let me help you learn and develop better ways to handle the issues that are standing in your way. ​ https://www.thrivecounselling.co.za/


Name of Book:

Healing for Trauma in the South African Context


Author:

Yvonne Retief


What drew you to read this book?:

I was drawn to the book because it discusses trauma, a topic I am interested in as a counselor and I might occasionally need to bring it up in counseling sessions. I see it as a resource to assist my clients.


What impact did this book have on your life?:

This book has taught me that one cannot simply take someone's problems at face value and that there may be underlying difficulties brought on by trauma even if the client is not aware of it. People have been known to repress trauma as a coping mechanism, but when a subsequent trauma of a similar nature occurs, it frequently resurfaces. It has served as a reminder of how crucial it is to delve deeper into a client's problems, particularly when they appear closed off.


In a paragraph, what is the main point of this book?:

This book offers a thorough explanation of trauma in the context of South Africa and offers a number of efficient healing techniques for those who have suffered trauma. It is a thorough and instructive book. The South African setting is the book's primary focus, however the principles and insights covered can benefit readers all across the world. Trauma and its effects are prevalent around the world, and Retief's focus on cultural sensitivity and context-specific healing techniques serves as a role model for other settings coping with their own particular problems.


Who would benefit from reading this book?:

Healing for Trauma in the South African Context" is a compelling and invaluable resource for anyone interested in trauma healing, particularly within the South African context. Yvonne Retief's expertise, compassion, and deep understanding of the subject shine through in this well-researched and thoughtfully presented book. By offering a comprehensive framework for healing, she empowers both professionals and individuals to embark on a journey of healing and transformation.


Star Rating?:




All comments are writers own.


Published by Struik Christian Media.

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