New from Seeds of Hope Books
finding my way book
Book of the Year Award
Winner of the ForeWord Magazine's
Book of the Year Award
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Chris Elliot. M. Ed.,
Therapist, Oklahoma
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Carrie C.
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Description

Finding My Way: A Teen’s Guide to Living with a Parent Who Has Experienced Trauma is an invaluable tool in the hands of those so often forgotten in dealing with trauma: the teenagers who are confused and frightened by what is happening. Practical in its format, clearly and concisely written, this vital resource avoids jargon and fills a desperate need for these families. It deserves to be widely promoted, lest any teen think they are alone and helpless while finding their way...” (Reverend Jeremy Basset, Church of the Servant, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)

Part One of Finding My Way clearly explains PTSD and other common responses to trauma, reviews co-occurring problems (including addictive behavior), and describes numerous treatment options. Part Two gently encourages readers to address their own strong emotions including anger, fear, confusion, sadness, and shame. Readers are then guided through the process of learning valuable coping tools, identifying their social support network, and figuring out how to deal with their friends. Part Three includes frequently asked questions, a glossary, and an extensive resource list.  This honest and respectfully written manual serves as a roadmap for teens who are trying to find their way.


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  pdf icon Table of Contents pdf icon Sections of Chapter Seven
  pdf icon Sections of Chapter Four pdf icon Sections of Chapter Eight


Read Reviews

"A ground-breaking, remarkably sensitive book that addresses the confusion and distress experienced by teenagers whose parents have been exposed to trauma. Families whose teenagers are coping with trauma exposure should be strongly encouraged to seek help and comfort from this unique text.  It could make all of the difference in the world." (from the foreword)
Fred Sautter, Ph.D., Psychologist. Co-chair, Family Studies Team, South Central Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC).  Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center.

"An extremely practical and compelling guide which embodies extensive research and clinical wisdom.  Most importantly, it’s written from the heart as a gift to families struggling with the aftermath of trauma."
Lieutenant Commander Tim Reimann, United States Navy Reserve.

"FINALLY! A book designed to empower teens to understand and cope with a traumatized parent.  A vital tool for teens, parents and helping professionals. Speaks to teens in straightforward language and depersonalizes the reasons for their parents' behavior.  Most importantly, it helps teens develop coping skills to deal with the aftermath of trauma."
Laura Lochner, Ph.D., Psychologist. Former Chief of the Life Skills Support Center, Head of the Critical Incident Stress Management Team, and Head of the Mental Health Disaster Team at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma.

"Every day millions of young people experience violence in their homes. This book offers skills to teens in a blame-free, age-appropriate manner.  A very important book—the first of its kind.  I intend to place copies in all domestic violence programs in Oklahoma."
Marcia Smith, Director, The Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.

"This unique book offers hope to teens, their families, and the adults who care about them by providing compassionate, helpful information. A timely resource in today's world where, tragically, post-traumatic stress disorder has become a common household word."
Dona Zanotti, Ph.D., Psychologist, Oklahoma.

"Outstanding resource for anyone who is trying to understand PTSD…but especially helpful for teenagers who want to know why their parent has changed and what they can do about it."
Jeff Pyne, M.D., Psychiatrist. Associate Professor, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Commander and Medical Corps, United States Navy Reserve.

"Honest, helpful, direct, therapeutic, and above all, a genuine aid to all young people. A MUST for all schools and treatment programs."
Reverend Richard Lutz, Chief Hospital Chaplain, Retired.

"This hands-on book is ideal for any teen whose parent has lived through a traumatic event.  The clinical and educational expertise of the mother-daughter Sherman team shines through.  Based on well-grounded scientific and clinical knowledge, the book is accessible and welcoming to the reader."
Jennifer Vasterling, Ph.D., Psychologist. Clinical Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center.  Associate Director for Research of the South Central Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC).

"This beautifully written and developmentally appropriate book provides understanding and support to teenagers who are struggling with the results of trauma experienced by their parents. Knowledge can at least partially erase fear. This interactive book gives the reader a chance to vent, to develop insight, and to overcome fear."
Marilyn Coleman, Ph.D., Professor of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Missouri, Columbia.

"Devastating events can greatly affect emergency personnel. Families need to know that it is OK to seek help.  This book will be a staple not only in my firehouse but in my own home as well...tremendously beneficial."
Stew Shepard, Captain, Apple Valley Fire Department, Minnesota.

"Finally—a book that explains PTSD in simple language and guides teens in coping and healing. This useful, sensitive book provides a practical toolbox for the reader.  I highly recommend this book for the whole family and for therapists/teachers who are looking for ways to help."
Richard A. Carothers, Ph.D., Psychologist. Past Chair of the Veterans Affairs Section (Division 18) of the American Psychological Association.

"A great resource for teens whose parents have been touched by trauma. The educational focus de-mystifies and de-stigmatizes the family's experience. The practical, down-to-earth suggestions for coping will be a great help to many youth.  Excellent addition to family and professional book collections!"
Debora J. Bell-Dolan, Ph.D., Psychologist. University of Missouri, Columbia.

"A long-awaited contribution to the field of PTSD."
Karen A. Guthrie, LICSW, Dartmouth Medical School.