Workshop Description:

In this workshop, we will identify and explore 20 of the most important things to stay mindful of when treating the challenging diagnosis of Dissociative Identity Disorder. As we process this framework for treatment, we will simultaneously be addressing the common missteps made by well-meaning and even experienced clinicians. We will discuss the therapeutic decisions that adversely affect appropriate boundaries, the flow and direction of treatment, internal stabilization and safety, and clients’ attitudes about hospitalization and integration. We will explore many cases examples from the presenter’s practice, as well as a wide range of cases that she has consulted on over the years. Participants will have the opportunity to connect these ground rules to their own work, have their professional struggles “normalized,” and will be encouraged to get guidance and feedback about challenges in their present caseloads.

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Learning Objectives:

1. Explain the origin of dissociation and multiplicity.

2. Identify at least five symptoms associated with DID.

3. Identify and describe at least 3 missteps in treating DID that can compromise boundaries.

4. Describe and implement the mapping strategy with alters.

5. Identify and describe at least 3 strategies that enhance inner safety and cooperation from alters.

6. Identify and describe at least 3 strategies that reduce clinician burn-out.

7. Identify and describe at least 3 strategies that allow the therapy process to move forward towards integration.