Overview

This 3-part webinar series aims to develop foundational knowledge of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) in an affirming manner.

These webinars aim to provide participants with:

• a clear understanding of DID, which is commonly misunderstood and misdiagnosed,
• knowledge on the application of the DSM/clinical model approach to the condition with a neuro-affirming framework, to better identify clients with dissociative identities, and
• knowledge to develop their competence in working with this population.

Webinar 1: Introduction to DID: Reframing the diagnosis, Thursday 26 June 2025

This session introduces participants to DID, reframing it as a construct that requires a shift from purely traditional clinical or medical models, incorporating an affirming care model (as DID falls under neuro-affirming practice).

It will cover:

• how DID presents,
• common misconceptions about the disorder, and
• why an affirming approach is necessary for effective treatment.

Webinar 2: Screening and assessment for DID, Thursday 31 July 2025

This session covers:

• how to screen and assess clients for DID using clinical assessment measures,
• practical tools like the Dissociative Experience Scale (DES-II) and the nuances of working with this cohort during the assessment phase,
• differential diagnoses to ensure accurate identification and avoid common misdiagnoses.

Webinar 3: System-affirming principles and foundational skills for working with DID, Thursday 28 August 2025

This session covers:

• system-affirming principles and foundational therapeutic skills for working with clients with DID,
• knowledge on the application of these principles in practice, ensuring that their clients feel respected and validated, while also building basic skills that are effective for working with this population, and
• an overview of Ritual Abuse, Mind Control, and Organised Abuse (RAMCOA), as it pertains to clients with DID.

Level of Learning

Foundational. This activity is targeted to those are new to the topic.

Duration of access

These webinars will be recorded. Access to the recordings and presenter slides is for 12 months from the date of confirmed registration.

APS CPD-Approved

This activity has been assessed against the APS Standards for CPD activities and approved for its education quality. Learn more about the APS CPD Approval process.

CPD Frequently Asked Questions

Refer to the APS CPD Frequently Asked Questions for general and technical information when undertaking APS Professional development activities.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this webinar, participants should be able to:

• recognise basics of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and its origins in trauma,

• use evidence-based tools to screen and assess for DID,

• describe system-affirming principles and how they apply to therapeutic practice with clients with DID,

• recognise the limitations of the clinical/medical model in understanding DID and explore the benefits of an affirming care approach,

• recognise diagnoses to consider when evaluating for DID, avoiding common misdiagnoses,

• learn foundational therapeutic skills, such as using respectful language,

• identify common misconceptions about DID and reframe them with current, evidence-based insights,

• apply affirming care principles during the assessment process to validate and support clients' experiences,

• implement practical strategies for creating a respectful and effective therapeutic relationship with clients with DID, and

• identify non-organic/engineered systems.

Presenter(s)

Johanna Knyn

About the presenter(s)

Johanna Knyn is the director at Guided Healing Psychology and a dedicated psychologist with a passion for guiding individuals through their healing journey. Her area of expertise is in dissociative disorders and complex trauma in adults.
In addition to her clinical work, Johanna is an advocate for education and awareness surrounding dissociative identities. Her commitment to dispelling myths and fostering a system-affirming approach has led her to present at conferences, where she shares her expertise with colleagues in the field. Recognizing the importance of supporting professionals in all areas of the allied health space, Johanna has provided bespoke training and workshops to enhance understanding and create a more inclusive environment for individuals with DID. Johanna’s commitment to bridging the gap between the medical model and a practical application is evident in her self-published works.
She has authored an insightful ebook tailored for clinicians entering the field of DID and an introductory document for colleagues new to working with this complex disorder. Taking a step further, Johanna has also written a children’s book titled My Mommy Has Multiple Parts, offering a child-friendly and affirming way for parents with DID to explain their condition to their children. She has her third publication, adapting DBT for those with dissociative identities being published via North Atlantic Publishing in early 2025. Her work aims to provide representation in mainstream media, fostering understanding and empathy. As a singlet—someone without DID—Johanna emphasizes the importance of including the voices of those with lived experience in the development of therapeutic materials. She actively engages with those with DID, recognizing the necessity of collaboration to create more effective and inclusive resources for healing. Johanna Knyn stands as an example of how compassion, expertise, and dedication can break down barriers and promote understanding in the field of psychology.