Trauma and Dissociation

The Trauma and Dissociation course, presented by Jessica Downs, LCSW, offers an in-depth exploration of dissociative disorders and their intricate relationship with trauma. The course begins by defining dissociation as a disruption in the normal integration of consciousness, memory, identity, and emotion, which can manifest in various forms such as depersonalization, derealization, and dissociative amnesia. It traces the historical evolution of the concept, from early studies by Pierre Janet to modern understandings of dissociative identity disorder (DID), highlighting the complexity of diagnosis and the ongoing challenges in conceptualizing these disorders.

The course delves into the neurobiological underpinnings of dissociation, exploring how chronic trauma can lead to structural and functional changes in the brain. It explains how dissociation can serve as an adaptive response to overwhelming stress, allowing individuals to continue functioning despite the trauma. The course also addresses the continuum of dissociation, from mild daydreaming to severe dissociative identity disorder, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and understanding the full spectrum of dissociative experiences in clinical practice.

A key focus of the course is on therapeutic approaches for treating dissociative disorders. It emphasizes the need for creating a sense of safety in therapy, as well as the importance of phase-oriented treatment and the use of trauma-focused therapies like EMDR and parts work (e.g., Ego State Therapy, Internal Family Systems). The course equips therapists with the tools to effectively support clients dealing with dissociation, helping them to integrate fragmented parts of their identity and memories, and ultimately, to heal from their traumatic experiences.