Understanding and Treating Trauma, Dissociation & The Inner Critic w/ Kathy Steele

Our guest on Episode 9 is Kathy Steele who is a psychotherapist, trainer, consultant and author from Atlanta, Georgia with over 35 years experience. Kathy is the Past President and Fellow of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD), and has also served two terms on the Board of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS). Kathy served on the International Task Force that developed treatment guidelines for Dissociative Disorders, and on the Joint International Task Force that has developed treatment guidelines for Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. She has received a number of awards for her work, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from ISSTD, an Emory University Distinguished Alumni Award, and the Cornelia B. Wilbur Award for Outstanding Clinical Contributions from ISSTD.Kathy is considered an expert in complex trauma, dissociation and attachment and her last co-authored book: Treating Trauma Related Dissociation: A Practical Integrative Approach won the Pierre Janet Writing Award. On this episode Kathy gives some background on her career path, the treatment of dissociation over time, and explains important terms and concepts in trauma therapy. She breaks down assessment and treatment aspects of trauma and dissociation as well as break down phase oriented trauma treatment. The inner critic, wounded child parts and other important 'characters' are discussed with some insight into how to explain and work with these areas in therapy. Lastly, Kathy provides useful tips and wisdom for new therapists and ways to prevent and manage burnout and vicarious trauma. For more information about Kathy, her publications and trainings check out her website HERE