Bessel van der Kolk

Bessel van der Kolk is a renowned psychiatrist, researcher, and author recognized for his expertise in the field of traumatic stress. He is particularly known for his groundbreaking work on understanding the impact of trauma on the mind, brain, and body, and for advocating innovative approaches to trauma treatment.

Van der Kolk’s career spans several decades, during which he has made significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of PTSD. He has held various academic and clinical positions, including professor of psychiatry at Boston University School of Medicine and medical director of the Trauma Center in Brookline, Massachusetts.

His most influential work, “The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma,” has garnered widespread acclaim for its comprehensive exploration of the effects of trauma and its integration of neuroscience, developmental psychopathology, and interpersonal neurobiology. In this book, van der Kolk elucidates how trauma can alter brain function, emotional regulation, and relationships, and he explores various therapeutic modalities for healing, including EMDR, yoga, and neurofeedback.

Van der Kolk’s research and clinical practice have focused on developing effective treatments for trauma survivors, emphasizing the importance of addressing the physical and emotional aspects of trauma. He has been a strong advocate for incorporating body-awareness practices, such as yoga and mindfulness, into trauma therapy. His work has significantly influenced the field of mental health and has helped to transform the understanding and treatment of trauma.