Posted by Lorelai on October 1, 2002, at 21:53:04
In reply to Re: Disassociative Disorder/Alter Egos » Lorelai, posted by Dinah on October 1, 2002, at 17:07:34
> I'm so sorry Lorelai. I understand intellectually that if a pdoc or therapist doesn't feel she is qualified to work in a particular area, that she is professionally obligated to refer the client to another one who is. But I imagine it feels awful anyway.
>
> I do understand what you mean, and I don't think dissociation is "insane" at all. I think it's just a creative way to cope with things, a learned skill coupled with a natural self hypnotic ability.
>
> May I suggest a couple of books that look at dissociation in a calm and helpful manner - not sensational at all. My favorite is the Myth of Sanity by Martha Stout. There is also The Stranger in the Mirror by Marlene Steinberg. Both discuss dissociative styles of coping which are less along the spectrum than true dissociative identity disorder (formerly multiple personality disorder).
>
> Don't worry too much about it. You are not alone, and it is not crazy.
>
> Take care,
> DinahHi Dinah,
Thanks for this. I'll definitely look into finding these books! I've been in a funk all day and into this evening, but found your post helpful and comforting (doesn't help that I'm on new meds--always a weird time for me).
It's going to be an adjustment to find myself suddenly working with a new pdoc. Doc S says she'll still be checking in with me, having short sessions with me to make sure things are going okay. So at least it's not total abandonment. It was a shock when she told me she just wasn't qualified to deal with me. I'd just let her know about Alice last week and felt a little spooked, but glad at the same time. I felt like I was making some headway. Then WHAM! She hit me with this news today. So I'm still sort of numb. I appreciate your post very much.
Best,
Lorelai
poster:Lorelai
thread:1196
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20020829/msgs/1199.html