Dr. Judith Herman on Complex PTSD and What Survivors Really Want

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Judith Herman, author of the groundbreaking book Trauma and Recovery, to talk about complex PTSD, trauma recovery, and what justice actually means to survivors.

Dr. Herman explains why complex trauma is still overlooked in mental health training, what the three stages of trauma recovery really look like in practice, and why isolation is one of the biggest predictors of poor outcomes. We also dig into her latest book, Truth and Repair, where she interviewed 30 survivors about what they actually want when it comes to accountability and healing.

This conversation challenges everything you think you know about justice, punishment, and what it takes to move forward after trauma. If you've ever felt invisible, unheard, or like the system wasn't built for you, this episode will validate every single thing you've been feeling.

Topics covered:

• The three stages of trauma recovery: safety, remembrance and mourning, and reconnection
• Why complex PTSD still isn't recognized in the DSM
• What survivors want more than anything (acknowledgment and vindication)
• Why most survivors don't want punishment or even apology from their abusers
• The role of bystanders in healing and harm
• How isolation impacts recovery and why finding your people matters
• Dr. Herman's one message to trauma survivors

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it.

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This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Remember, I'm a therapist, but I'm not your therapist. Nothing in this podcast is meant to replace actual therapy or treatment. If you're in crisis or things feel really unsafe right now, please reach out to someone. You can call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text them, or head to your nearest ER.

The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organizations or institutions. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.