(with David Elliott) in Dissociation and the Dissociative Disorders: Past, Present, Future (New York: Routledge, in press).
Dissociation – disconnection between domains of functioning which are ordinarily integrated – is commonly severe in complex trauma and poses many treatment challenges. A phased therapy approach is recommended but has also been challenged in various ways. This chapter considers whether phased treatment for complex trauma and dissociation is necessary, or whether treatments accorded the imprimatur of ‘evidence based’ (‘first line’, generally short-term and exposure-based) are sufficient and effective. This seemingly straightforward question invites queries about optimal treatment of complex trauma-related dissociation which the chapter also explores.