Free PTSD Books

Message or E-mail me (uclasocialworker@gmail.com) if you want me to send you PDF versions of any of these books.

Trauma Mask-Making

This activity that creates a visual representation of a person's trauma and its impact can be highly therapeutic aid in self-expression and processing. Click here for a DIY suggestion. Above are masks created by Veterans suffering from PTSD.  You can read the full article here. Below are descriptions of the masks above (numbered left to right, top to bottom)

1. This mask from an army medic features the quote "I have destroyed my life and myself so that others may live'
2. This Marine depicts a 'split sense of self' in his mask
3. 'The Shock of Death' shows the traumatic memory of seeing an Iraqi killed after a gunshot wound to the head
4. 'Emotional Hostage' is the name of this mask
5. This mask shows the soldier's need to camouflage to try and acclimate back into society
6. This mask dually examines the significance of death and the surviving spirit that exist once a person is killed.
7. Fingerprints on the nose and chin represent resuscitation efforts by this commanding Marine for troops he lost.
8. The three stitches represent the healing process the soldier feels at Walter Reed
9. The soldier who created this mask wanted to show his trouble with opening up to his emotions

Art Therapy Fundamentals

DIY Dollhouse Furniture

Click the links below to view directions on how to create each of the furniture pictured (numbered from left to right, top to bottom).

1. Matchbox Drawers
2. Yarn Rug
3. Wire Chair
4. IPhone Box Fridge
5. Cardboard Bed
6. Block Kitchen
7. Plastic Toilet
8. Bottle Cap Stools
9. Cardboard Sink

Free Gestalt Therapy Books

I got a request for Gestalt Therapy books.  Send me a private message or email (uclasocialworker@gmail.com) if you would like free PDF versions of the following books:

• Opening Doors by Rosenblatt
• Gestalt Therapy: 100 Key Points and Techniques by Mann
• Gestalt Therapy: Excitement and Growth in the Human Personality by Paris, Hefferline and Goodman

Yet another FREE book.  

I have a PDF of School-Based Play Therapy by Drewes and Schaefer.  It has a lot of information and is 526 pages long.

Just E-mail me if you want me to send a copy over to you (uclasocialworker@gmail.com)

Group Puzzle Activity

This is a good team building activity that can be used to talk about acceptance, differences, working together, etc.  Group members all get their own piece to decorate.  At the end each individual piece is unique and beautiful in its own way but when the puzzle comes back together it creates an intricate “masterpiece.”  This lends itself to many metaphors and discussions you can tailor to fit your group.  You can paint over or glue paper to an old puzzle or just buy a blank one (Bare Books sells then for $.99).  Get creative with the materials you provide.

Emotional Regulation Activities

Emotional Regulation Activities: A follower suggested I should compile a post with all the emotional regulation activities I’ve posted so here it is.

• Calm Box
• Glittler Bottle
• Jellyfish Jar
• Calming Rain Stick
• Deep Breathing
• Separation Anxiety Hearts
• Free Guided Meditation
• Worry Bag
• Anger Management Balloon Activities
• DIY Sensory Substances

I also created an emotional regulation page here