Topic: Dissociation of the Personality in Complex Trauma (van der Hart, Nijenhuis & Solomon, 2010)

During this study group, we will explore van der Hart, Nijenhuis, and Solomon's 2010 paper, Dissociation of the Personality in Complex Trauma-Related Disorders and EMDR: Theoretical Considerations, and its central premise that trauma can divide the personality. The self splits into an Apparently Normal Part that works, parents, and functions while avoiding the trauma, and one or more Emotional Parts that stay fixated in the experience and relive it in the body as though it were still happening. We will trace the continuum from simple PTSD through complex PTSD and the dissociative disorders, along with what Janet called the phobia of traumatic memories, which keeps the division in place after the danger has passed. The heart of the discussion is what this means for EMDR work.

Upon registration, participants will receive:

  • A detailed summary of the reading
  • A copy of: van der Hart, O., Nijenhuis, E. R. S., & Solomon, R. (2010). Dissociation of the personality in complex trauma-related disorders and EMDR: Theoretical considerations. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 4(2), 76–92.


This event is free for MCTS members

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Instructor(s)

Pria Alpern, PhD

Psychologist

Dr. Alpern is a licensed clinical psychologist and an EMDRIA-approved EMDR therapist, consultant, and trainer. She is the founder of the Manhattan Center for Trauma Studies, where she oversees continuing education trainings focused on EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy. She is also the founder and clinical director of Center Psychology Group in New York City, a psychotherapy practice specializing in trauma treatment for adult and perinatal populations. She is a graduate of the EMDR Clinical Affiliate Program at the National Institute for the Psychotherapies (NIP) Trauma Treatment Center in New York City, where she completed her EMDR training. She is also an advanced-level Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEI). Dr. Alpern has specialized training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders from Postpartum Support International. She earned her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Long Island University’s Brooklyn campus. She also completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Rosemary Furman Counseling Center at Barnard College, focusing on late adolescence, early adulthood, and trauma. Dr. Alpern holds a B.A. in Psychology and Art History from Georgetown University. Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Alpern offers trauma-related psychoeducation through her Instagram and TikTok platforms, raising awareness about EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy. She has been featured in Glamour UK, Rolling Stone, NPR, and The New York Times.

Pricing options

We want this study group to be as accessible as possible while honoring the time and expertise that goes into facilitating it. The standard rate is $40, which helps cover preparation, facilitation, and community resources. A reduced rate of $25 is available for anyone who needs it - no explanation required. Please choose the rate that feels sustainable for you.