More Than Freeze: Understanding Dissociation in Complex Trauma

This presentation introduces a stage-oriented model for treating complex trauma, with a special focus on understanding dissociation and how it shows up in clinical work. Attendees will learn how to identify dissociative processes that often go unrecognized in clients with trauma histories, and how to respond effectively in the moment to support safety and stabilization. The session explores the early phases of treatment, including how to work with self-states (parts of self), recognize transference and countertransference patterns, and avoid common pitfalls in trauma work. Practical tools, language, and clinical examples will be offered throughout.

Abigail Percifield, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in trauma, dissociation, and complex PTSD. She is the Co-Owner of the Healing and Wellness Collective, a Chicago-based group practice focused on relational, trauma-informed care for adults. Dr. Percifield also serves as President-Elect of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD), where she contributes to training, treatment guidelines, and professional advocacy, and is on faculty of the ISSTD Professional Training Program. Her work integrates relational psychodynamic theory, somatic attunement, and neuroscience-informed care. Her approach emphasizes clarity, compassion, and a deep respect for the complexity of trauma recovery.

In this presentation, attendees will:

1. Describe the core components of the phase-oriented model of trauma treatment.
2. Identify common signs of dissociation and how to therapeutically work with self-states.
3. Apply at least three practical strategies for supporting stabilization in Stage 1 treatment with dissociative clients.
4. Explain the role of transference and countertransference in trauma-informed therapy, particularly with dissociative clients.

Advanced registration is required | Virtual presentation, meeting link will be provided after registration is complete. *Certificates of completion will be emailed to those who are present and successfully complete the presentation survey/quiz.

Andersonville Psychology is approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation as a continuing education sponsor for Licensed Clinical Psychologists (license #268.000125), Licensed Professional Counselors/Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (license #197.000350), and Licensed Social Workers/Licensed Clinical Social Workers (license #159.001572).