About Isstd
ISSTD: Advancing Understanding of Chronic Trauma and Dissociation
ISSTD, or the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation, is a non-profit organization that has been at the forefront of advancing clinical, scientific, and societal understanding about chronic trauma and dissociation for over 35 years. As the oldest complex trauma and dissociation society in the world, ISSTD has played a pivotal role in shaping research, education, and treatment approaches related to these complex issues.
At its core, ISSTD is dedicated to promoting greater awareness about chronic trauma and dissociation among mental health professionals as well as members of the general public. Through its various initiatives such as conferences, workshops, webinars, publications (including peer-reviewed journals), online resources (such as podcasts), advocacy efforts (including policy statements), training programs (such as certification courses), research grants/fellowships/scholarships - ISSTD aims to provide a platform for sharing knowledge about these topics.
One of ISSTD's key strengths lies in its multidisciplinary approach. The society brings together experts from diverse fields such as psychology/psychiatry/neuroscience/social work/counseling/education/law/etc., who share a common interest in understanding how chronic trauma affects individuals' lives. This interdisciplinary perspective allows for a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues related to trauma/dissociation.
ISSTD's mission is not only limited to advancing knowledge but also translating it into practical applications that can benefit those affected by chronic trauma/dissociation. For instance - through its Treatment Guidelines Task Force - ISSTD has developed evidence-based guidelines for treating individuals with dissociative disorders/complex PTSD. These guidelines are widely used by clinicians worldwide who specialize in treating these conditions.
Another important aspect of ISSTD's work is advocacy efforts aimed at raising awareness about issues related to chronic trauma/dissociation among policymakers/public opinion leaders/media/etc., with the goal of reducing stigma and improving access to care for those affected by these conditions.
ISSTD's impact can be seen in the numerous research studies, clinical interventions, and policy changes that have been influenced by its work. For instance - ISSTD played a key role in the development of the DSM-5 criteria for dissociative disorders, which has helped improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes for individuals with these conditions.
In conclusion, ISSTD is a unique organization that has made significant contributions to advancing understanding about chronic trauma/dissociation. Its multidisciplinary approach, commitment to evidence-based practice, advocacy efforts, and focus on translating knowledge into practical applications make it an invaluable resource for mental health professionals as well as members of the general public who seek greater awareness about these complex issues.
isst-d.org
