Cognitive Behaviour Therapist
2019

A protocol for managing dissociative symptoms in refugee populations (Article) (Open Access)

Chessell Z.J. , Brady F.* , Akbar S. , Stevens A. , Young K.
  • a Woodfield Trauma Service, 7a Woodfield Road, London, W9 2NW, United Kingdom
  • b Woodfield Trauma Service, 7a Woodfield Road, London, W9 2NW, United Kingdom, Helen Bamber Foundation, Baynes Street, London, NW1 0TF, United Kingdom
  • c Woodfield Trauma Service, 7a Woodfield Road, London, W9 2NW, United Kingdom
  • d Woodfield Trauma Service, 7a Woodfield Road, London, W9 2NW, United Kingdom, Traumatic Stress Service, 25 Erleigh Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 5LR, United Kingdom
  • e Woodfield Trauma Service, 7a Woodfield Road, London, W9 2NW, United Kingdom, Oxford Rose Clinic, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom

Abstract

This article describes a clinical protocol for supporting those presenting with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and dissociative symptoms, particularly dissociative flashbacks, based on a cross-culturally applicable model. The protocol is discussed from the perspective of working with a refugee and asylum seeker population, although many of the principles will be applicable to clients from any background presenting with these dissociative symptoms. The protocol addresses the assessment and formulation of a client's dissociative symptoms. It includes guidance on sharing psycho-education with clients regarding the evolutionary function of dissociation and developing practical strategies to monitor and manage dissociative symptoms. The strengths and limitations of this protocol are also discussed.Key learning aimsAfter reading this article people will:(1)Be able to understand a cross-culturally applicable model of dissociation and how it applies to clinical practice when working with clients presenting with dissociative symptoms, particularly dissociative flashbacks, in the context of a diagnosis of PTSD.(2)Be able to assess and formulate dissociative symptoms as part of an overall PTSD formulation.(3)Be able to develop practical strategies for assisting clients in monitoring and managing their dissociative symptoms.(4)Be familiar with adaptations for using this approach with refugee and asylum seeker populations. © British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies 2019.

Author Keywords

Post-traumatic stress disorder cross-cultural BAME Dissociation trauma

Index Keywords

[No Keywords available]
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85065324431&doi=10.1017%2fS1754470X19000114&partnerID=40&md5=ca39336c2e5ba5fc17944f7fe796c725
DOI: 10.1017/S1754470X19000114
ISSN: 1754470X
Cited by: 1
Original Language: English