DAt CARE Counseling, Inc., we are committed to supporting individuals who experience the complexities of dissociation. Dissociative Disorders are often misunderstood, overlooked, underdiagnosed, or misdiagnosed—but with informed care, individuals can find clarity, stability, and healing. We understand that treating dissociation takes a well-trained pair of eyes.

What Are Dissociative Disorders?

Dissociative Disorders are mental health conditions characterized by disruptions or disconnections in consciousness, memory, identity, emotion, perception, or behavior. These experiences are not merely forgetfulness or daydreaming—they are often involuntary and can profoundly affect a person’s sense of self and ability to function.

The main types include:

1. Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)
   

• Formerly known as multiple personality disorder

• Characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identity states (alters)

• Often includes memory gaps and significant distress or impairment
  

2. Dissociative Amnesia
   

• Inability to recall important personal information, usually related to trauma or stress
  

3. Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder
   

• Experiences of feeling detached from one’s body (depersonalization) or surroundings (derealization), while reality testing remains intact

Scientific and Psychological Foundations

1. Trauma-Based Origin

Research strongly supports the association between early, repeated trauma (e.g., abuse, neglect) and the development of dissociative symptoms. According to the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD), dissociation is a protective adaptation that helps individuals survive overwhelming experiences by compartmentalizing memory and identity.

2. Neurological Research

Neuroimaging studies show that dissociation is linked to alterations in brain regions such as:

• The amygdala (fear processing)
  
  

• The hippocampus (memory integration)
  
  

• The prefrontal cortex (executive function and self-awareness)
  
  

These changes support the idea that dissociation is not "imagined" or "faked"—it is a real, brain-based response to trauma.

3. Comorbidity and Misdiagnosis

Dissociative Disorders often co-occur with:

• PTSD or Complex PTSD (CPTSD)

• Depression

• Anxiety disorders

• Borderline Personality Disorder

Due to overlapping symptoms, dissociative disorders are frequently underrecognized in clinical settings. According to the DSM-5, DID may go undiagnosed for 6–12 years in treatment.

Social and Cultural Considerations

Stigma and Misunderstanding

Dissociative Disorders have historically been sensationalized in the media, contributing to skepticism and stigma. People living with DID, in particular, may feel pathologized or doubted.

At CARE Counseling, Inc., we believe in trauma-informed, affirming care. We understand that dissociation is a coping strategy rooted in survival—not a sign of instability or danger.

Cultural Context

Different cultures interpret dissociative experiences in various ways, sometimes as spiritual events, possessions, or trance states. We approach care with cultural humility, ensuring that symptoms are assessed in the context of the client’s beliefs, values, and experiences.

Common Signs of Dissociation

• Gaps in memory (for daily events, personal history, or trauma)

• Sudden changes in behavior or preferences

• Feeling “detached” from one’s body or identity

• Hearing internal voices or conversations

• Losing time or finding items moved without explanation

• Feeling like the world is unreal or dreamlike

• Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected from others

Treatment at CARE Counseling, Inc.

We use a phased, trauma-informed approach to help individuals with dissociative symptoms feel safe, stable, and empowered. Our clinicians are trained in:

• Parts work and Internal Family Systems (IFS)

• Sensorimotor and Somatic therapies

• Trauma-focused CBT and DBT

• Psychoeducation and grounding techniques

• EMDR and Brainspotting (as appropriate)
  

We work collaboratively, focusing first on safety and stabilization, then on processing trauma and integration of experiences. We respect each person’s pace and needs.

Our Commitment

CARE Counseling, Inc. provides compassionate, evidence-based support to individuals navigating dissociative symptoms or diagnoses. Whether you're newly exploring dissociation or have a formal diagnosis of DID or related disorder, our team is here to walk with you toward understanding and healing.

You are not broken. You are adaptive. And you are not alone.