Trauma-Based Dissociative Identity Disorder

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Recognition, Diagnostic Assessment, and Evidence-Based Intervention Strategies

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Abstract:

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This presentation will provide a detailed overview of Dissociative Identity Disorder, an often misunderstood  and misdiagnosed trauma-based DSM disorder! Contrary to widespread belief, it is developed in childhood as a protective reaction to significant childhood developmental traumatic experiences such as sexual abuse and other adverse and often chronic childhood events identified as “complex trauma”.  These experiences  require a strong system of protective psychological defenses and frequently overwhelm the young developing child’s natural ability to cope. The presenter will cover the childhood experiences that are most likely to lead to the development of  dissociative defenses and Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). The presenter will provide an overview of the neurobiological processes of dissociation, a detailed overview of the identifiable and also the less obvious symptoms of DID. The presenter will cover specifically what to look for in making an accurate diagnosis.  The presentation will include discussion of three  widely-normed DID assessment instruments and effective evidenced-based intervention strategies!  Finally, participants will be involved in experiential activities to help support assessment, diagnosis, relationship building and effective treatment planning.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will understand the research-based etiology of Dissociation and Dissociative Disorders

• Participants will learn specific assessment strategies to identify Dissociative  Identity Disorder.

• Participants will learn the effective use of structured assessment instruments to support accurate

• Diagnostic assessments.

• Participants will be able to identify  appropriate treatment interventions for individuals diagnosed with DID.

 

Attendees will earn 7.0 Category I Contact Hours, including 2.0 Category I Contact Hours of Ethics.