The Psychology of Acute Trauma
A Clinician’s Guide to Healing and Recovery
APA Citation
Moore, D. A. & Mahr, G. (2026). The psychology of acute trauma: A clinician’s guide to healing and recovery. Elsevier Academic Press.
Description
The Psychology of Acute Trauma: A Clinician’s Guide to Healing and Recovery is an essential resource that addresses the emerging focus on the treatment of acute trauma, a topic often overshadowed by the extensive literature on PTSD. This groundbreaking guide is particularly aimed at clinicians working with underserved populations, providing crucial insights into the management of acute trauma survivors during the peritraumatic period. By equipping professionals with strategies to alleviate psychological distress, prevent the onset of PTSD, and promote post-traumatic growth, this book fills a significant gap in existing literature. It offers comprehensive guidance on assessment and psychological treatment, covering vital topics such as the neurobiology of acute trauma, psychotherapy approaches, and the role of psychopharmacology. Additionally, the book explores the importance of caregiver support, resilience, and the cultural and spiritual dimensions of recovery. This guide is an invaluable tool for fostering effective trauma programs and enhancing the healing journey for acute trauma patients.
Key Features
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Explores the neurobiology and psychology of acute trauma to understand its impact on survivors and inform treatment approaches
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Describes effective psychotherapeutic techniques tailored for acute trauma patients, promoting healing and resilience
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Utilizes practical assessment tools and worksheets provided in the appendix to enhance clinical practice and patient care
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Addresses the unique needs of underserved populations, promoting equitable support and resources for all trauma survivors
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Offers strategies for the development of comprehensive trauma and acute care surgical psychology programs that integrate cultural and spiritual aspects of recovery to foster holistic healing
Testimonials
“The Psychology of Acute Trauma is a practical and thoughtful guide that honors the lived experience of patients and demonstrates the expertise of its authors. It offers deeply informed insight and perspective into an important and underdiscussed area of healing. This work is an important addition to the field that will undoubtedly benefit countless patients.”
Rana Awdish, MD
Best selling author of In Schock: My Journey from Death to Recovery and the Redemptive Power of Hope
2021 Pushcart Prize Nominee
“The Psychology of Acute Trauma offers a comprehensive guide for clinicians working in medical settings with patients experiencing acute trauma. With clarity and depth, the authors outline evidence-based assessment and timely interventions, while emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration grounded in a biopsychosocial framework. This book provides clinicians with a practical roadmap for delivering effective, trauma-informed care in high-acuity hospital environments.”
Kelly L Gilrain, PhD, ABPP
Chief Psychologist
Cooper University Health Care
“In early 2025, I found myself under ICU care as a result of trauma from a serious bicycle accident. The support provided to me by Dr. Moore allowed me to process my emotions related to this trauma and process and manage the post injury anxiety that I was feeling. Wholistic care at its finest. The Psychology of Acute Trauma provides an outstanding overview of the emerging field of Trauma and Acute Care Surgical Psychology. This book will serve as an invaluable resource for both clinicians and hospital administrators alike. Drs. Moore and Mahr crystalize decades of experience providing care to acutely injured individuals into a thoughtful and easy-to-read guide to caring for patients and developing cutting edge trauma psychology programs.”
Bob Riney
President and CEO
Henry Ford Health