"It feels like a safe container": Experiences of finding solid ground groups for adults with dissociative disorders

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Psychiatry
• Trauma Studies

Background:

• Dissociative disorders (DDs) are trauma-related conditions impacting memory, identity, and consciousness.
• DDs are prevalent yet frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated, highlighting a need for accessible interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences of adults with dissociative disorders participating in the 31-week Finding Solid Ground psychoeducational group.
• To assess the perceived helpfulness and impact of the group intervention on participants' mental health and functioning.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative thematic analysis of participant experiences (N=72) in eight Finding Solid Ground groups.
• Participants had a primary diagnosis of DD or PTSD dissociative subtype, with common comorbidities.
• The group intervention was adjunctive to individual psychotherapy, delivered weekly over 31 sessions.

Main Results:

• Participants reported enhanced self-awareness, internal communication, self-compassion, and emotion regulation.
• Improvements were noted in hope, overall functioning, and reductions in isolation, shame, and self-blame.
• Significant decreases in dissociative and trauma-related symptoms were observed.

Conclusions:

• The Finding Solid Ground curriculum shows potential as a beneficial group intervention for dissociative disorders.
• Trauma-informed group interventions may offer a scalable treatment approach for this underserved population.
• Further research into group-based psychoeducation for DDs is warranted.