english

DBT-PTSD for treating cPTSD with complex dissociation

by Theresa on May 13, 2018 in english, therapy

DBT-PTSD, also called DBT-PE, is a relatively new 12-week inpatient program designed to treat cPTSD with severe comorbid disorders like dissociation. It combines elements from classic DBT with Prolonged Exposure (PE) as trauma confrontation technique. In a nutshell Before starting: You will be tested, if you meet the criteria. DBT-PTSD is aimed at people […]

The polyvagal theory for PTSD

by Theresa on May 2, 2018 in basics, english, theory

This post is based on „The polyvagal theory“ by Stephen Porges. The book describes a mostly scientific theory about the nervous system, specifically different parts of the vagus nerve and how it is related to stress and social interaction. The details on the anatomical side are boring and difficult. So we will butcher it, take […]

Budgeting (LifeSkills)

by Theresa on April 18, 2018 in english, self-care & life-skills

A lot of people with PTSD or DID survive with very little money. The key to a simple but manageable life on a tight budget is having a plan, actually writing a budget for the month. (Everyone should do this, but it is especially important with low income) We will walk you through the steps […]

TRIMB: a gentle approach to Trauma Reprocessing

by Theresa on April 12, 2018 in english, therapy

[ATTENTION: This article explains a method for trauma treatment. Do not try this for yourself. Do not try this with a T who is not trained to do it. This is not a „teaching“ or self-help article. It is only meant to inform you about a basic strategy and is overly simplified.] TRIMB® was […]

The 3 Phases of Therapy 2: Trauma Work

by Theresa on April 11, 2018 in english, theory, therapy

Trauma and DID therapists commonly agree on working with a 3-phase-model. It describes an order in which to do work for the best, fastest and safest results. In an attempt to keep articles short we will share about the different phases in separate articles. The 3 phases are Stabilization Trauma work Integration The separation […]

Team Meetings and conflict solving (DID SystemWork)

by Theresa on April 2, 2018 in basics, DID, english

Roll calls can help your DID System to manage situations in daily life, but they are not enough to support your SystemWork long-term. You need something that is equally organized, but that allows for more of a conversation than just a short report. You need a team meeting. [There is actually no need to have […]

Resource Game for DID SystemWork (ft. Unicorn)

by Theresa on March 26, 2018 in DID, english

A while ago we created a resource-oriented game to play with our DID system. We were looking for a playful way to get together and do things that create a relational experience as well as lift our mood and support our DID SystemWork. (If you don’t have DID, keep reading to find out how you […]

Tools for helping someone out of dissociation

by Theresa on March 21, 2018 in basics, english, for helpers

If you are friends with someone who dissociates, you might want to learn how to help them, in case it happens while you are around. Here are different interventions you can use to interrupt dissociation and support grounding. Tell them that they are dissociating. People often don’t notice. If they get a hint, they might […]

Balancing a dissociative System (DIDSystemWork)

by Theresa on March 19, 2018 in DID, english, theory

For years I have been on a quest for balance for our DID system. Not just ordinary balance, perfect balance. We started out in chaos and I restored daily structure. I restored rhythm and routines and a system for adulting. And everyone was thankful for that. Then I tried to establish a daily schedule, with […]

Taking down Goliath – integrating abuser-imitating parts

by Theresa on March 13, 2018 in DID, english, for helpers

Most DID systems have a Goliath inside. A Giant, strong, mean, abuser-imitating, who comes forth to intimidate and declare war on us. Often we stand there like the Israelites, scared and convinced that we are doomed. I will share with you the 5 stones a David could pick up to face a DID Goliath. They […]

Characteristics of a good DID Therapist

by Theresa on March 5, 2018 in DID, english

DID Systems often have good intuition about who can help them. We are open to share with therapists who show certain characteristics, even if they are not specialists yet. We looked at the last 10 therapists we worked with and compared them. Here is what we found (in no particular order, not claiming that it […]

Therapy: The initial interview (cPTSD)

by Theresa on February 27, 2018 in english, therapy

Before you decide to work with a T, there is usually a first interview, where T and patient can get to know each other. You will get the most out of your interview if you prepare for it. The following questions should help you to get a good measure of the T, how they work […]