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We Know the World is Burning and We Aren't Afraid to Talk About It


You're not overreacting.

The world is on fire, figuratively, literally, existentially.

If you’re feeling the weight of just trying to survive in a world that far too often these days feels violent, chaotic, and upside down… you’re not alone.


If you’ve found ways to cope, even if they’re messy, even if they’re not always sustainable, we want you to know: they make sense.


Signs You Might Be Carrying Collective Trauma

Maybe it’s the news. Maybe it’s a quiet grief you carry in your body, one that doesn’t always have words. Maybe you’re just tired; tired of having to keep showing up in systems that ask you to normalize burnout, racism, homophobia, ableism, ecological collapse, political cruelty all while keeping it together, staying productive, and pretending everything is fine.


You might notice:

  • Numbing out or feeling emotionally flat

  • Trouble concentrating or staying present

  • Over-functioning or constantly staying busy

  • Doomscrolling or obsessively seeking information

  • Feeling stuck in cycles of guilt, helplessness, or rage

  • A sense of detachment from your own needs, values, or emotions

  • Difficulty resting or feeling safe in your body


Well, of course you do!


This is not a diagnosis but a response to a broken system

These are not weaknesses. They are adaptive responses to living in a chronically dysregulated world. On that note, living in a chronically dysregulated world, shocker, dysregulates people. This isn’t a personal failure. It’s an human response to systems that have been intentionally built to keep people from thriving.


You Deserve Care That Holds Your Humanity

At The Pine Center, we don’t pathologize your pain, we sit with it. We know it. It's ours too.

We get curious about your patterns, not critical. We honor the ways you’ve learned to survive, and we walk with you as you learn new ways to exist, ways that are rooted in connection, care, and choice.


We know that no amount of self-care can undo structural harm. There aren’t enough bubble baths in the world to take away the ache of living in late-stage capitalism, or the burnout of caregiving in systems that don’t give back. Not everything can be fixed, but it can be witnessed. We’re not here to hand you a gratitude journal and send you on your way. We're way past that.


We’re here to be with you, honestly, relationally, tenderly, in the fire. We understand what you've had to normalize just to keep going.

This is therapy that names what’s real. That doesn’t shy away from rage or sorrow. That makes room for complexity and contradiction. That invites your nervous system to breathe, maybe for the first time in a long while. We believe that you don't have to make peace with injustice to find peace in your body.

Here, you don’t need to pretend it's all ok and that everything is normal. You get to show up exactly as you are: overwhelmed, numb, heartbroken, disconnected, resilient. All of it belongs.

You deserve care that holds your humanity. Especially in a world that keeps trying to take it from you.


We're here for you when you're ready, and until then, please take care of yourself.

ree

 
 
 


ree

Perhaps, like me, you've woken up today feeling the weight of decisions made by others and watching as those in power strip away the rights of so many.


In response, I spent a bit of time this morning compiling a list of places you can donate money to in support of the LGBTQIA+ community. If you have the means, I encourage you to offer financial support. If you don't, I get it - please instead take a moment to share these resources with a friend who might. Please look over other ways to support these organizations if monetary support isn't an option.


There are many amazing organizations, and this only scratches the surface in the time I had before joining my first session this morning.


If you have additional resources you'd like added, please comment and I'll update as I can.


Sincerely, An unapologetically human and upset therapist


o   Human Rights Campaign has spent more than 40 years creating the most powerful movement for equality our country has ever seen. But despite this progress, our most marginalized are still suffering from violence, discrimination and fear. Our goal is to ensure that all LGBTQ+ people, and particularly those of us who are trans, people of color and HIV+, are treated as full and equal citizens within our movement, across our country and around the world.

o   American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) works in courts, legislatures, and communities to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties that the Constitution and the laws of the United States guarantee everyone in this country.

o   GLAD LAW Through strategic litigation, public policy advocacy, and education, the GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD Law) mission statement defines our works in New England and nationally to create a just society free of discrimination based on gender identity and expression, HIV status, and sexual orientation.

GLAD Law is committed to fulfilling this mission with urgency and perseverance.

o   Transgender Law Center is the largest national trans-led organization advocating self-determination for all people. Since 2002, they’ve been organizing, assisting, informing and empowering thousands of individual community members toward long-term national, trans-led movement for liberation.

o   Black Trans Advocacy Coalition (BTAC) Established in 2011, The National Black Trans Advocacy Coalition is the only social justice organization led by black trans people to collectively address the inequities faced in the black transgender human experience.

o   The Trevor Project offers crisis services, advocacy, peer support and public education for LGBTQ+ folks 24 and under. This includes a 24/7 year-round crisis lifeline.

o   Trans Lifeline is a grassroots hotline and microgrants 501(c)(3) non-profit organization offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis – for the trans community, by the trans community

o   Transitional Justice is a grassroots organization created for the express purpose of providing refuge and support for transgender political refugees who are fleeing persecution.

o   Marsha’s House: LGBTQIA+ young adults experiencing homelessness in New York City have never had housing resources within the shelter system tailored to their needs. But that changed in February 2017, when Project Renewal opened Marsha’s House, the city’s first shelter to fill this gap and serve LGBTQIA+ individuals ages 18 to 35.

o   The Transcend Campaign/Pfund Foundation – supporting LGBTQ+ communities in the Upper Midwest. Their goal is to support transportation costs for queer youth from North Dakota, South Dakota, and Iowa to receive necessary and life-saving healthcare out-of-state, cover tuition costs for remote schools that are welcoming to all gender identities in cases where students' local districts are not safe spaces for transgender and queer youth, and provide small cash grants to other organizations doing groundwork in those states.

o   Open Arms Project is a mutual aid project of TRACTION started in 2023 in response to the alarming increase in anti-trans legislation and rhetoric across the country. Hundreds of thousands of Two-Spirit, transgender, nonbinary, gender-diverse, and gender-nonconforming (trans+) people and their families are seeking to escape legislative persecution and violence. The Pacific Northwest has long been a destination for such folk, and we expect migrating people and families to increase over the next decade.

o   Elevated Access was launched in 2022 in response to the extreme healthcare bans being enacted in state legislatures. They are a non-profit organization that enables people to access healthcare by providing flights on private planes at no cost. Our volunteer pilot network transports clients seeking abortion or gender-affirming care across the United States.

 

Charlotte, NC Specific

o   There’s Still Hope

o   The Freedom Center for Social Justice is creating culture shifts in social justice, civil rights, LGBTQ+ communities and spaces where people of low wealth and racial minorities dwell. We are proud to work in collaboration, across lines of difference, with local and national organizations that fight for equal protection under the law.

o   Time Out Youth offers vital programs, fostering unconditional acceptance, and creating safe spaces for self-expression through leadership, community support and advocacy. Their Vision is to inspire inclusive communities where all youth are equally empowered to reach their true potential.

 
 
 

ree


Are you or a loved one living with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)? Finding the right therapist who specializes in treating this condition can be a crucial step on your healing journey. Let's face it, it can also be daunting, exhausting, and incredibly vulnerable. In this article, we will explore the challenges of navigating the path to healing and provide insights into finding the right therapist when working with DID.

Finding a therapist who understands the unique challenges faced by individuals with DID is paramount. Their expertise can make a significant difference in your healing process. From establishing trust and safety to implementing effective therapeutic techniques, the right therapist can help you navigate the challenges and complexities of living with DID. In this article, we will discuss the essential qualities to look for in a DID therapist and provide practical tips on finding the right professional to guide you on your path to healing. Let's embark on this journey together and empower ourselves with the knowledge needed to find the right therapist for managing dissociative identity disorder.


Understanding Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)


Dissociative Identity Disorder, formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder, is a mental health condition that affects an individual's sense of self, memory, and identity. It can be a result of trauma or abuse experienced during childhood. Understanding how to manage this condition requires the expertise of a qualified therapist who has experience in working with DID clientele.

Individuals with DID often experience distinct personality states, known as alters, that may have their own memories, behaviors, and identities (age, culture, religion, sexual orientation, gender/gender expression, etc.). Two key features of DID are that the client is experiencing distress as result of the condition and that the condition is causing an impact in the client's ability to function in different aspects of their life (with friends, with family, at work or school, etc.). Living with DID can be overwhelming. However, with the right support and treatment, individuals with DID can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

The importance of finding the right therapist

Therapy for DID is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It requires a therapist who is knowledgeable about the condition and is skilled in providing specialized treatment. The right therapist will create a safe and supportive environment, where you can openly explore your experiences, process trauma, and work towards your goals. It is also important to note that many people expect integration of "alters" or the distinct personality states experienced with DID to be the primary goal. For some clients, integration is a goal, while others focus on increasing function internally within the DID system or externally within the world.


Qualities to look for in a dissociative identity disorder therapist

When searching for a therapist to help you manage dissociative identity disorder, there are several important qualities to consider:

1. Experience and Expertise: Look for a therapist who has specific experience in treating DID. They should have a deep understanding of trauma-informed care, the disorder, its symptoms, and effective treatment approaches. Ask potential therapists about their experience working with individuals who have DID. 2. Empathy and Compassion: Living with DID can be challenging, and it is essential to find a therapist who is empathetic and compassionate. They should create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to share your experiences and emotions. A therapist who genuinely cares about your well-being will be more effective in helping you heal. 3. Collaborative Approach: The therapist you choose should be willing to work collaboratively with you. They should involve you in the treatment planning process, respect your goals and preferences, and adapt therapy techniques to suit your needs. The therapist should never push you to discuss sensitive topics or push you into goals that are not your own. Your therapist should be open to feedback about how you feel your work is going. Collaboration fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment in your healing journey. 4. Cultural Competence: Consider the therapist's cultural competence and sensitivity. Dissociative Identity Disorder can affect individuals from diverse backgrounds, and it is essential to find a therapist who understands and respects your cultural values and experiences. A therapist who is sensitive to your unique needs can create a more inclusive and supportive therapeutic environment.

5. Continuing Education: Look for a therapist who stays updated on the latest research and treatment approaches for dissociative identity disorder. They should actively seek opportunities for professional development and engage in ongoing education to ensure they provide the most effective care.


Tips for finding a therapist experienced in treating DID

Finding the right therapist for managing dissociative identity disorder can feel overwhelming, but with these practical tips, you can streamline the process and increase your chances of finding the right professional to guide you on your path to healing.

  • Researching Potential Therapists Start your search by researching therapists who specialize in trauma and dissociative disorders. Look for professionals who specifically mention experience in working with individuals with dissociative identity disorder. Online directories, professional organizations, and referrals from trusted sources can be valuable resources for finding potential therapists. Therapy plays a vital role in the healing journey for individuals with dissociative identity disorder. It provides a safe space to explore and process traumatic experiences, develop coping strategies, and work towards integration and healing. A skilled therapist will use a combination of therapeutic techniques tailored to your specific needs. These may include therapies such as Brainspotting, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), ego state therapies (Developmental Needs Meeting Strategy (DNMS), Internal Family Systems (IFS), inner child work, etc.), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), etc. The therapist will also focus on building resilience, fostering self-compassion, and developing healthy coping skills. Remember, healing from DID is a gradual and complex process. It requires commitment, patience, self-discovery, and a quality relationship with your therapist. The right therapist will be there to support you every step of the way.


  • Initial Consultation with a Therapist Once you have a list of potential therapists, schedule an initial consultation with each one. This meeting will give you an opportunity to gauge their expertise, ask questions, and assess whether you feel comfortable and supported by them. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, and establishing a good fit with your therapist is crucial. If you meet with a therapist and feel like it isn't a good fit, that's ok! You can let your therapist know that the fit does not feel right and ask for a referral.

  • Questions to Ask a Potential Therapist Prepare a list of questions to ask during the initial consultation. Here are some suggestions:

- How many clients with dissociative identity disorder have you treated? - What treatment approaches do you use when working with a client experiencing DID? - How do you create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for individuals with DID?

-How do you involve and incorporate alters into therapy?

-How do you approach trauma-informed care? - Can you provide references from past colleagues? - Are you willing to collaborate with other healthcare professionals involved in my care?

-Are you open to hearing feedback?

-What are ways you know when a client is improving?

  • Evaluating the Therapist-Client Fit During the initial consultation and subsequent sessions, pay attention to how you feel when interacting with the therapist. Trust your intuition and consider whether you feel heard, understood, and supported. You deserve a good fit with your therapist. It may take time for you to feel really connected with them and that's pretty normal, but if something feels off or not right, trust your instinct.


Conclusion: Finding hope and support in the journey

Therapy plays a crucial role in the healing journey of individuals with dissociative identity disorder. It provides a safe space to explore and process traumatic experiences, explore and possibly integrate different identities, and develop coping skills and techniques for managing symptoms.


A few of the primary goals of therapy for dissociative identity disorder is to establish trust, safety, and regulation. Working to build these 3 things within the therapy space, within the client, within the internal system are all aspects of the work.


The right therapist can guide you through this process, offering expert guidance and support. Additionally, therapy can help individuals develop healthy communication and cooperation among different identities, leading to greater functionality.

The Pine Center offers compassionate care and treatment for those experiencing dissociative identity disorder. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out.

 
 
 

Get in touch:

kaci@thepinecenter.com

Phone: 765-343-6166

Fax: 833-906-1763

©2022 by The Pine Center.

trauma therapy charlotte

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