Abstract

The Therapeutic Spiral Model (TSM) was developed as a clinical method of addressing deep issues of trauma, notably post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) relating to physical and emotional abuse and addiction. A modified form of classical psychodrama and experiential psychotherapy, it is today used with survivors of many different forms of trauma in over twenty countries worldwide.

This book provides a succinct and accessible introduction to the Therapeutic Spiral Model in practice and its evolution, explaining how it works, its relationship with classical psychodrama, neurobiology, experiential psychotherapy and clinical psychology, and how it differs from other experiential therapeutic methods. For the first time, it describes the ways in which the TSM model has been used with diverse populations, and in different languages and cultures, in chapters contributed by experienced practitioners from the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, South Africa and Taiwan. The original clinical applications of the TSM model are described, and detailed examples are given of its more recent applications, including its use with mothers affected by domestic violence, in work with traumatised families, with survivors of ethnic conflict and with men who are incarcerated.

Providing research-based theory and immediate, hands-on models of treatment for clinicians to use, this is a valuable resource for drama therapists, expressive arts therapists, counselors, community workers, peace builders and other psychology, social work and counselling professionals working with survivors of trauma.

From the innovators of psychodramatic experiential treatment for trauma comes this exciting and exhilarating new book on the art, science and craft of experiential treatment for trauma survivors. The book is a delightful weaving of academic research, practical clinically-based and research-tested tools and techniques, and compelling stories of personal change and growth from practitioners at the front lines of trauma treatment around the world.
Dale Richard Buchanan, Ph.D., T.E.P., Director of Clinical Therapies (Retired), Saint Elizabeths Hospital, Washington, DC
An eloquent and moving account of how trauma can be healed; a literary tapestry describing both the supporting neuroscience and the creative collective that is TSM. Transcending time, place, and cultures, [this book] gives us more than hope - it gives us a design for global healing.
Linda Ciotola, M.Ed., TEP, TSM certified trainer and team leader and co-author, with Karen Carnabucci, of Healing Eating Disorders with Psychodrama and Other Action Methods: Beyond the Silence and the Fury
This book is a crystal, each facet of which is complete in itself. It glitters with the simplicity of the core principles of the Therapeutic Spiral Model, facilitating embodied learning and reframing in the brain.
Olivia Lousada, D.Psych., senior trainer in Psychodrama and author of Hidden Twins