Healing the Trauma of Domestic Violence A Workbook for Women

Many women who free themselves from violent domestic situations experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) long after they achieve physical and emotional safety. A ringing telephone or a crowded city street threatens a potential encounter with their abuser. People they care for seem far away, and things they used to enjoy offer neither pleasure nor relief. Their long, sleepless nights drag on.

If you’ve freed yourself from an abusive relationship but still suffer from its effects, this program of trauma recovery techniques can help you take back your peace of mind. Based on a clinically proven set of techniques called cognitive trauma therapy (CTT), the exercises in this workbook will help you address feelings of guilt, anger, depression, anxiety, and stress. You'll learn how to break down the negative thoughts that might be cycling in your mind and how to replace them with positive, constructive affirmations. Later in the program, you'll be guided through controlled exposure to abuse reminders, which will enable you to face the fears you might otherwise spend a lifetime avoiding. The program begins and ends with techniques for becoming your own best advocate—an informed, confident person with all the strength you need to create the secure, fulfilling life you deserve.

• Recognize the effects of trauma on your life
• Let go of anger, stress, shame, and guilt
• Change core beliefs that can lead to involvement in abusive relationships
• Confront and overcome your fears
• Dispel feelings of helplessness
• Avoid future involvement with potential abusers

--Tony Robbins, bestselling author and Peal Performance strategist

“Attention-grabbing and revealing, giving us insight into the world of CDV. It will be a valuable tool for our staff and New York Citys most vulnerable population—its children.”

--Trevor M. Johns, acting associate commissioner, NYC Administration for Childrens Services

“Martins kindness shines through this book. And though many purported self-help books often have the stench of the obvious—House too cluttered? Throw out stuff! Overweight? Eat less, move more!—Invincible has the air of honesty and hard work, and the feeling of someone who wants to help. It is not easy reading. It is not pleasant reading. But for anyone who grew up in a violent household, it could very well be the most important reading.”

--NJ.com

“After reading Invincible, I was struck by the sheer magnitude of children and adults whose lives are impacted by childhood domestic violence. The stories will touch your heart and make you aware of this huge crisis facing our children throughout the world.”

--Marlene Lund, executive director, Center for Urban Education Ministries

“Packed with inspirational stories of those who through courage and compassion have transformed their lives, this is a helpful book for anyone who grew up living with domestic violence. It shows that it is possible to overcome the obstacles of a childhood filled with violence and move forward.”

--Stephen Joseph, Ph.D., author of What Doesnt Kill Us: The New Psychology of Posttraumatic Growth

“Invincible can be a catalyst for change in the lives of millions who grew up living with domestic violence, as it gives them a compelling roadmap on the journey to heal and attain the lives they were always meant to have. It is a valuable resource that can renew their hope and guide them on the path to reaching their full potential.”

--Caryl Stern, CEO of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF

“Invincible is poignant, challenging, illuminating, and compassionate—all at the same time. Brian does a fantastic job of illustrating points with real-life stories and a fresh perspective. The book goes way beyond describing the issue; it provides clear insight into the thinking and behavior patterns that result from these experiences. Readers are not alone.”

--Chris Newlin, M.S., L.P.C., executive director, National Childrens Advocacy Center

According to UNICEF, growing up with domestic violence is one of the most pervasive human rights violations in the world, affecting more than a billion people. Yet too few people are aware of the profound impact it can have.

Invincible seeks to change this lack of awareness and understanding with a compelling look at this important issue, informing and inspiring anyone who grew up living with domestic violence—and those who love them, work with them, teach them, and mentor them.

Through powerful first-person stories, including the authors own experiences, as well as insightful commentary based on the most recent social science and psychology research, Invincible not only offers a deeper understanding of the concerns and challenges of those who grew up with domestic violence, but also provides proven strategies everyone can use to reclaim their lives and futures.

The author is donating all net royalties to the Children of Domestic Violence Foundation (CDV).

By rejecting the lies that he believed throughout his life, he set himself on a course to reach his full potential. He founded several multimillion-dollar global businesses, built a healthy and strong body, cultivated a confident mind-set, forged loving relationships, and developed a deep connection with his children.

In 2007, he founded Children of Domestic Violence (CDV), an international nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting and supporting anyone who grew up living with domestic violence.

Brian and his work have been featured in The New York Times, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes. He has testified before Congress, appeared on national television programs including Dr. Phil, and produced the award-winning documentary The Children Next Door.

He was born outside of Newark, New Jersey, and lives there today with his two favorite people in all the world: his daughter, Ella, and his son, Frank.