Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)

At Alchemy Collective, we provide specialized treatment for Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) with therapists who bring extensive training, experience, and a deep understanding of dissociative processes. We recognize DID as a creative survival mechanism that develops in response to overwhelming childhood trauma, allowing a person to continue functioning despite unbearable circumstances.

DID involves the presence of two or more distinct personality states or "parts," each with their own way of perceiving, relating to, and thinking about the environment and self. These parts may have different names, ages, abilities, preferences, and memories, and transitions between parts (switching) may be obvious or subtle. Many people with DID also experience amnesia, identity confusion, and changes in functioning.

Our approach to treating DID is grounded in the phase-oriented trauma treatment model, beginning with safety and stabilization—developing trust in the therapeutic relationship, building skills for emotional regulation, and fostering internal communication and cooperation between parts. We then carefully move toward processing traumatic memories at a pace that feels manageable, always with respect for your system's protective functions and wisdom.

Our therapists utilize specialized modalities particularly effective for DID, including the Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM), Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR adapted for dissociative disorders, and parts work. We emphasize creating safety for all parts of your system, improving daily functioning and quality of life, reducing symptoms, facilitating internal communication and cooperation, and supporting integration as it naturally unfolds.

Treatment for DID is often longer-term, requiring patience and commitment from both client and therapist. Our goal is not to eliminate parts but to help your internal system function more harmoniously and adaptively, with increased co-consciousness, reduced amnesia, and greater internal cooperation. We understand the courage it takes to seek help for DID and are committed to providing knowledgeable, compassionate care throughout your healing journey.