In this compelling work, Oliver J. Morgan draws on interpersonal neurobiology to explore the intricate links between addiction, attachment, and trauma. The book presents a compassionate framework that emphasizes how connection—or the lack thereof—influences suffering and healing. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a modern, integrated understanding of recovery.

What is the interpersonal neurobiology perspective?

Interpersonal neurobiology (IPNB) examines how the mind, brain, and relationships interact to shape our lives. This book applies IPNB principles to addiction, revealing how neural integration is disrupted by early adversity and substance use, and how therapeutic relationships can foster healing. The author translates complex neuroscience into practical wisdom, offering a roadmap for connection and recovery.

How can this book support clinical practice?

By integrating attachment theory, trauma-informed care, and neurobiology, the book provides a cohesive framework for assessment and intervention. It encourages a shift from a pathology-focused approach to one emphasizing relational repair and post-traumatic growth. Case examples and theoretical insights bridge research and practice, helping clinicians enhance their therapeutic effectiveness.

Who would benefit from reading this book?

This work is designed for therapists, counsellors, social workers, and addiction specialists seeking a deeper understanding of their clients' experiences. It also serves as a valuable resource for students in psychology, social work, and related fields. Those personally affected by addiction or trauma may find its insights illuminating and validating. Readers praise its clear-eyed, compassionate coverage of a vast amount of material, calling it essential for anyone in the addiction field.

How are addiction, attachment, and trauma connected?

The author traces developmental pathways from disrupted attachment to compulsive substance use and behavioural addictions. Trauma, whether acute or chronic, further compromises the brain's stress regulation systems, creating a cycle of dysregulation that addiction temporarily soothes. By understanding these links, clinicians can address root causes rather than symptoms. The book highlights the role of the social brain and the need for se relationships in fostering resilience and recovery.

What does this book explore?

Addiction, Attachment, Trauma and Recovery examines how early attachment experiences influence vulnerability to addiction and how trauma disrupts the capacity for healthy connection. It delves into the neurobiological underpinnings of these processes, offering a synthesis that is both accessible and clinically relevant. The book moves beyond traditional models to emphasize the power of relational connection in recovery, making a compelling case for treating addiction within the context of attachment and trauma.

These statements have not been evaluated by Health Canada. This book is not intended to diagnose, treat, , or prevent any disease.