Dr. Fabiana Franco’s article, “Recognizing and Treating Dissociative Identity Disorder,” was published in the Journal of Health Service Psychology, an official journal of the National Register of Health Service Psychologists.
Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is a complex and often misunderstood condition that can be difficult to recognize, particularly when symptoms overlap with complex PTSD and other mental health concerns. In the article, Dr. Franco examines how DID can affect identity, memory, and a person’s sense of agency, while addressing the important role of careful assessment in distinguishing DID from other trauma-related conditions.
She also discusses the connection between DID and chronic developmental trauma and the importance of specialized, trauma-informed treatment. Rather than rushing into trauma processing, effective care places an emphasis on safety, stabilization, emotional regulation, and daily functioning before gradually addressing traumatic experiences.
Through a more accurate understanding of how DID presents and how it can be treated, Dr. Franco highlights the importance of moving beyond common misconceptions and providing thoughtful, informed care for people living with complex dissociation.