Edward Tick

Dr. Edward Tick gives a presentation at the Altus Air Force Base, March 10, 2011

Edward Tick is an American psychotherapist, author, and educator specializing in the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and the psychological effects of war on veterans. He is best known for his holistic and spiritually based approach to healing PTSD, which he has developed over several decades of working with veterans of various conflicts, including the Vietnam War, Iraq War, and Afghan War. Tick's work integrates traditional psychotherapy with ancient spiritual practices and cross-cultural healing techniques.

Biography

Edward Tick was born in the United States (the specific date and place of birth are not publicly disclosed). He received his academic training in psychology and has dedicated his professional life to counseling, specifically focusing on veterans and the unique challenges they face after returning from combat. Tick holds a Ph.D. in psychology and is a licensed psychotherapist.

Throughout his career, Tick has traveled extensively, studying with traditional healers, shamans, and spiritual teachers across the globe. These experiences have deeply influenced his approach to healing, leading him to incorporate rituals, storytelling, and spiritual pilgrimages into his therapeutic practices.

Career

Edward Tick's career has been marked by his innovative approach to treating PTSD. He founded the non-profit organization Soldiers Heart, which aims to address the emotional, moral, and spiritual needs of veterans and their families. Through Soldiers Heart, Tick has developed therapeutic programs that include educational workshops, healing retreats, and international pilgrimages to former battlefields.

Tick is also an accomplished author, having written several books on the subject of healing from war trauma. His most notable works include "War and the Soul," which explores the deep psychological wounds of war and offers a comprehensive model for healing, and "The Practice of Dream Healing," which delves into the ancient practice of dream healing and its relevance to modern psychotherapy.

Philosophy and Approach

Edward Tick's philosophy centers on the belief that conventional psychotherapy alone is insufficient to heal the deep wounds of war. He advocates for a holistic approach that addresses the psychological, physical, spiritual, and moral dimensions of healing. Tick emphasizes the importance of community, ritual, and storytelling in the healing process, arguing that these elements can help restore the warrior's sense of purpose, belonging, and peace.

Tick also stresses the significance of acknowledging and honoring the warrior's experience, including the moral and ethical dilemmas faced during combat. He believes that healing from war trauma requires a societal effort, where veterans are reintegrated into the community with honor and where their experiences are recognized as part of a larger human story of conflict and healing.

Publications

Edward Tick has authored several influential books, including:

• "War and the Soul: Healing Our Nation's Veterans from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder"
• "The Practice of Dream Healing: Bringing Ancient Greek Mysteries into Modern Medicine"
• "Warrior's Return: Restoring the Soul After War"

Impact and Legacy

Edward Tick's work has had a significant impact on the field of psychotherapy, particularly in the treatment of PTSD among veterans. His holistic and spiritually inclusive approach has not only helped countless individuals heal from the scars of war but has also influenced the broader discourse on mental health and the importance of integrating spiritual and cultural practices into therapeutic settings.

See Also

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Veterans Affairs
• Holistic Health
• Spiritual Healing