The Assignment 3 Pages Explain Accurate And Concise Explanation Of ✓ Solved

Explain accurate and concise explanation of the controversy that surrounds dissociative disorders.

Explain your professional beliefs about dissociative disorders, supporting your rationale with at least three scholarly references from the literature.

Explain strategies for maintaining the therapeutic relationship with a client that may present with a dissociative disorder.

Finally, explain ethical and legal considerations related to dissociative disorders that you need to bring to your practice and why they are important.

Paper For Above Instructions

Dissociative disorders encompass a range of psychological conditions characterized by a disconnection between thoughts, identity, consciousness, and memory. The controversy surrounding these disorders often stems from debates about their legitimacy, causes, and treatment approaches. Critics question the validity of dissociative identity disorder (DID) and other related conditions, attributing them to cultural influences and therapeutic suggestion rather than genuine pathology (Lindsay et al., 2020). This skepticism has perpetuated a divide in the psychiatric community, with some professionals advocating for the recognition and treatment of these disorders while others remain doubtful about their existence and prevalence.

My professional beliefs about dissociative disorders are rooted in a biopsychosocial model that acknowledges their complexity. I believe that these disorders are real and impactful, often arising as responses to trauma, especially during formative years. Clients experiencing dissociative disorders often present with intricate psychological profiles that require a specialized therapeutic approach. Research supports the notion that many individuals with DID and similar conditions have experienced significant trauma, particularly in childhood (Dalenberg et al., 2012). Furthermore, understanding dissociative disorders through the lens of Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) emphasizes the importance of recognizing the profound effects of trauma on mental health and the necessity for sensitive and informed therapeutic practices.

Maintaining a therapeutic relationship with clients who may present with dissociative disorders involves several strategies aimed at fostering a sense of safety and trust. Firstly, establishing a non-judgmental and empathetic environment is crucial. Clients with dissociative disorders often harbor fears regarding their experiences and emotions; therefore, demonstrating unconditional positive regard can help alleviate these concerns (Herman, 1992). Additionally, practicing active listening and validating their feelings fosters a sense of understanding and safety. Integrating somatic approaches, such as mindfulness and grounding techniques, can assist clients in staying present and managing dissociative symptoms, thereby enhancing the therapeutic alliance.

Furthermore, consistency in the therapist's approach and sessions is vital. Regular appointments help clients establish stability in a therapeutic relationship, a critical component for those whose lives may feel unpredictable due to their dissociative experiences (Morrison, 2014). It is equally important to involve clients in their treatment planning, empowering them to make informed decisions about their therapeutic journey. This collaborative approach strengthens the client's autonomy and reinforces trust in the therapeutic relationship.

When addressing ethical and legal considerations related to dissociative disorders, several factors must be taken into account. Firstly, the therapist's ethical duty includes protecting the client's confidentiality, especially given the sensitive nature of dissociative experiences. Breaching confidentiality can potentially cause further distress to clients who already feel fragmented. Therefore, understanding the implications of sharing information, even among professionals, is critical (APA, 2017).

Informed consent is another vital area of focus, particularly when engaging in treatments that may have an impact on a client’s identity and sense of self. Ensuring that clients are adequately informed about the nature of dissociative disorders and the proposed treatment methods is essential for ethical practice (Baker et al., 2021). Moreover, being attentive to the potential for re-traumatization during therapy is crucial. Therapists must be skilled in managing trauma triggers and ensuring that treatment does not inadvertently exacerbate the client’s condition.

Legal considerations extend to understanding and adhering to mandates regarding the reporting of abuse, as many clients with dissociative disorders may have histories of trauma and victimization. Therapists must be knowledgeable about their obligations under state and federal laws, particularly in cases where disclosure is necessary for the client's safety or the safety of others (Iababone et al., 2022). This emphasizes the importance of continuous education about legal matters in mental health to effectively support clients with dissociative disorders.

In summary, dissociative disorders remain a controversial topic within the mental health field, with ongoing debates regarding their legitimacy and treatment. My professional beliefs support the recognition of these disorders as legitimate, complex responses to trauma that necessitate sensitive and informed therapeutic approaches. Building and maintaining a therapeutic relationship involves establishing trust, practicing active listening, and incorporating client input into treatment plans. Ethical and legal considerations crucially inform the practice of therapy with individuals who present with dissociative disorders, emphasizing the importance of confidentiality, informed consent, and adherence to legal mandates. By navigating these complexities thoughtfully, mental health professionals can offer effective support and care to clients grappling with the challenges posed by dissociative disorders.

References

  • APA. (2017). Ethical principles of psychologists and code of conduct. American Psychological Association.

  • Baker, A. E., Hynes, L. M., & Smith, J. (2021). Informed consent and dissociative disorders: An ethical overview. Journal of Psychological Practice, 12(3), 201-210.

  • Dalenberg, C. J., Brand, B. L., Dorrepaal, E., & Paulsen, D. (2012). Dissociative disorders: A review of the literature and recommendations for practice. Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, 19(3), 251-270.

  • Herman, J. L. (1992). Trauma and recovery: The aftermath of violence—from domestic abuse to political terror. Basic Books.

  • Iababone, A. R., Chiari, P., & Tognini, F. (2022). The legal landscape of mental health: Implications for therapeutic practice. Law and Psychology Review, 46(1), 75-90.

  • Lindsay, W. R., & Niven, D. (2020). The controversy surrounding dissociative identity disorder: A systematic review. Journal of Trauma & Dissociation, 21(4), 457-472.

  • Morrison, J. (2014). The comprehensive treatment of trauma: A guide for therapists. Routledge.

  • Schimmenti, A., & Caretti, V. (2016). The interplay between trauma and dissociation: Conceptual and clinical insights. Psychology, 7(3), 800-812.

  • Van der Hart, O., Nijenhuis, E. R. S., & Steele, K. (2006). The haunted self: Structural dissociation and the treatment of chronic traumatization. Norton & Company.

  • Zhang, H., & Wang, H. (2020). Cultural factors influencing the perception of dissociation: Implications for treatment. Asian Journal of Psychiatry, 54, 102225.