Book excerpt: A simple, effective, and groundbreaking approach to help you move beyond trauma and focus on the things that bring you joy. If you suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), reliving the past through trauma-focused treatments may be too painful a place to start. Behavioral activation—the powerful treatment method outlined in this workbook—provides an essential foundation for recovery by shifting the focus of your trauma to the things in life that give you true fulfillment, joy, and value. This way, you can envision the kind of future you want to have, and move forward in your treatment to pursue that future. With this breakthrough workbook, you’ll learn to replace unproductive coping strategies—such as avoidance—with activities that you find pleasant and meaningful. You’ll find an overview of behavioral activation: what it is, why it works, and how you can implement it into your life to begin healing the wounds of your past and paving the way for a bright future full of possibility. If you’ve experienced trauma, you need real tools to help you manage your pain and jumpstart your recovery. With this compassionate and evidence-based workbook, you’ll find actionable solutions to help you begin healing and take that next needed step toward wellness, wholeness, and peace.