This volume describes all aspects of trauma, through an interweaving of theory and practice, and clinical work ranging from a short series of therapeutic consultations to full analysis. Major disasters such as the death of Princess Diana draw attention forcibly to their effects on the survivors. Less visible are the trauma and after-effects of non-public events. Much larger in number, these events may be either accidental or deliberately inflicted, and cause short-lived or longer-lasting breakdown, i.e. a psychological inability to function after what has happened. Understanding the nature of this kind of breakdown is essential if treatment is to be effective and durable.