The treatment of highly dissociative patients remains a significant challenge for therapists who work with complex trauma. Evidence based treatments for this population are still in their infancy. Kathy Steele is a renown expert in the field who, along with her colleagues Suzette Boon, Ph.D and Onno Van Der Hart, PhD, has developed a model of intervention based upon advances in neuroscience, neuropsychology, and trauma research, as well as decades of extensive experience working with and supervising others who work with this population. This two-day workshop will introduce participants to this integrative, phase-oriented model of treatment for structural dissociation.
Day One:
Day One will explore the neurobiology and psychology of structural dissociation, and distinguish it from other phenomena that are also called dissociation in the literature. This theoretical overview gives a strong foundation for practical clinical approaches recommended by practice guidelines. These specific approaches will be discussed throughout the workshop. Participants will learn how to formulate a rational and step-wise treatment plan that allows clients to progress toward better integrative functioning in a sequenced way that is within a window of emotional tolerance. The most effective ways to work with a subjective sense of separateness will be discussed. We will explore the tasks and goals of therapy with dissociative disorders across phases of treatment; what is similar and different in treatment for clients with dissociative disorders; prognostic indicators that can guide treatment; and stabilization approaches specific to clients with structural dissociation.
Day Two:
Day Two will explore common challenges and dilemmas in treatment. These include difficulties with the therapeutic relationship, such as dependency, challenges to therapeutic boundaries, and avoidance of connection; how to develop a collaborative relational approach that emphasizes safety rather than attachment; common resistances and how to work with them; and how to recognize and manage re-enactments.
There is no conflict of interest or commercial support for this program.