Season 6, Episode 11: Dissociation with Dr Jamie Marich
This week Monique interviews Dr. Jamie Marich (she/they) about dissociation. Jamie is a clinical trauma specialist, EMDR Consultant, expressive artist, recovery advocate, and author of many excellent books, including ‘Dissociation Made Simple’, and their latest book ‘You Lied to Me About God’ – a memoir of spiritual abuse and recovery. She is a queer woman in long-term recovery from an addictive disorder and lives with dissociative identities. Jamie unites all of these elements in their mission to redefine therapy.
Monique and Jamie cover:
What is dissociation, and what is its purpose?
What are the different forms of dissociation, and why does Jamie tend to avoid using a ‘continuum of severity’ framework when thinking about dissociation?
The history of ‘dissociation’ as a diagnostic concept.
What is dissociative amnesia.
Myths about dissociative conditions.
Jamie’s lived experience of dissociative identities and the role that expressive and martial arts has played in their own journey and in their therapeutic work.
How does dissociation fit under the neurodivergence umbrella, and what is the overlap of dissociative conditions with Autism and ADHD?
Ways that people can reduce the stigma of dissociative conditions and support others experiencing dissociative conditions.
[00:01:14] What is ‘dissociation’?
Key Takeaways:
Dissociation stems from the Latin root “dissosatio,” meaning to sever or divide, and it often involves disconnecting from the present moment due to pain, stress, or boredom.
Everyone experiences dissociation to varying degrees, from common experiences like daydreaming or highway hypnosis to more profound responses triggered by trauma.
Dissociation can involve severing from reality or disconnecting from parts of ourselves. These “parts” can exist in therapy concepts without necessarily being tied to high levels of dissociation.
Being “in a part” doesn’t always mean being disconnected from the present moment; dissociation has nuances that can manifest differently for individuals.
Dissociation is an adaptive survival mechanism that allows human beings to cope with overwhelming experiences, highlighting the brain’s ability to protect itself in challenging situations.
[00:06:56] Different levels of dissociation
Key Takeaways:
Dissociation is often described as a continuum, ranging from common experiences like daydreaming and zoning out to more complex phenomena like dissociative identities, but this linear view doesn’t fully capture its complexity.
The concepts of adaptive and maladaptive provide a way to understand dissociation without judgment. Behaviours can be seen as helpful or less helpful based on individual needs and circumstances rather than being labelled as inherently good or bad.
Historical and cultural understandings of dissociation, dating back to the 19th century and beyond, highlight its role as a universal survival mechanism that helps people manage trauma and thrive.
Dissociation and dissociative identities are often pathologised, but they are natural adaptations to trauma. Embracing these mechanisms with understanding can lead to a full and meaningful life.
Amnesia in dissociation may manifest as gaps in memory between parts or as blocked memories from trauma. This serves as a protective mechanism, allowing individuals to function while shielding them from overwhelming experiences.
“Dissociation isn’t pathological—it’s a survival response that helps us navigate overwhelming experiences.”
[00:23:19] Myths about dissociative conditions
Key Takeaways:
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is often misrepresented in media as inherently violent, but forensic data shows people with DID are no more likely to commit crimes or be violent than the general population.
Another myth is that people with DID or dissociative disorders cannot live meaningful lives. In reality, many individuals with DID thrive in various professions, showcasing brilliance and creativity while managing challenges.
There is a misconception among professionals that people with dissociative identities are too fragile for trauma therapies like EMDR. While precautions are necessary, individuals with dissociative responses can successfully engage in these therapies.
Dissociation is not rare; DID affects 1–1.5% of the global population, comparable to the prevalence of red hair. Broader dissociative disorders are even more common, often linked to trauma such as complex PTSD or adverse childhood experiences.
The myth that DID does not exist can be invalidating and re-traumatising for individuals seeking help. Dismissing or debating its existence perpetuates harm, underscoring the need for trauma-informed, respectful care.
[00:31:41] Jamie’s lived experience of dissociative identities
Key Takeaways:
People with dissociative identities often have a "golden part" that excels in professional roles, demonstrating insight, empathy, and reliability, while personal relationships may present greater challenges due to tender parts still actively healing.
Creative expression and physical movement offer profound avenues for processing emotions, especially for those who grew up in environments where verbal communication wasn’t safe or supported.
Expressive arts therapy, which integrates modalities like painting, writing, dance, and music, can provide a vital outlet for emotions and experiences that are difficult to verbalise.
Martial arts, such as jiu-jitsu, can help individuals address unresolved physical and emotional tension, offering a sense of completion and empowerment through body-based practices.
[00:36:08] How does dissociation fit under the neurodivergence umbrella, and what is the overlap of dissociative conditions with Autism and ADHD?
Key Takeaways:
Dissociation and dissociative disorders are debated as forms of neurodivergence, with some seeing them as acquired neurodivergence resulting from trauma rather than inborn traits like Autism or ADHD.
Neurodivergence can create vulnerabilities to trauma, as sensory sensitivity and processing challenges may heighten the likelihood of dissociation as a coping mechanism.
Trauma and dissociation can blend with inborn neurodivergence, creating a complex interplay of responses rather than being an ‘either-or’ scenario.
Formal research on the overlap between Autism, ADHD, dissociation, and trauma is limited, highlighting the need for more studies and dialogue with people who have lived experiences of these intersections.
Engaging in qualitative research and conversations fosters understanding, allowing shared insights on sensory overload, burnout, and dissociative responses to emerge.
[00:41:27] Ways we can reduce the stigma of dissociative conditions and support others experiencing dissociative conditions.
Key takeaways:
Allies can combat stigma by addressing misinformation about dissociation and dissociative identities when they encounter it, such as challenging harmful portrayals in media.
Supporting people with dissociation starts with listening—clinicians should prioritise the voices of their clients and individuals with lived experience to gain genuine insights.
Reflecting on how dissociation manifests in your own life fosters empathy and a non-judgmental approach when supporting loved ones or clients.
Understanding dissociation doesn’t mean excusing harmful behaviours; it’s about seeking understanding and reducing judgment while maintaining accountability.
Recognising and accepting diverse experiences helps to dismantle fear and stigma, making space for curiosity and compassionate connection.
“Do your own investigation and work into how dissociation shows up for you.”
Connect with Dr. Jamie Marich:
See more of Jamie’s work through their website – www.jamiemarich.com. You can access their professional trainings through The Institute for Creative Mindfulness and resources of professionals and the public through Redefine Therapy.
Things We Mentioned:
Some of Dr. Jamie Marich’s books:
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