Book Review: The Dissociation Made Simple Flipchart by Jamie Marich

Introduction

The Dissociation Made Simple Flipchart: A Visual Guide for Clinicians Working with Dissociative Clients by Jamie Marich (2024) is a follow-up to her 2023 book, Dissociation Made Simple: A Stigma-Free Guide to Embracing Your Dissociative Mind and Navigating Daily Life. This flipchart is designed to provide both therapists and clients with a practical, visually engaging tool to understand and work with dissociative experiences. It aligns with the structure and flow of the 2023 book, making it easier to reference and deepen the understanding of key concepts in dissociation (Marich, 2024, p. 4).

Marich emphasizes that while the flipchart corresponds with the original book’s order, it is not necessary to have read the 2023 book to benefit from this resource. However, the flipchart encourages users to refer back to specific pages in the 2023 book for more in-depth exploration of certain concepts, such as the “Safe Enough” Harbor (Marich, 2024, p. 17). Designed for flexible use in clinical settings, the flipchart allows therapists to adapt the order of exercises or modify suggested activities based on client feedback, which reflects Marich’s client-centred, trauma-informed approach (Marich, 2024, p. 4).

Whether you are a therapist looking for a resource to help clients visualize their dissociative experiences or an individual aiming to better understand and educate others about dissociation, this flipchart is an invaluable guide. Its focus on stigma-free and inclusive language makes it particularly relevant for those in Canada, where a diverse range of communities, including Two-Spirit, trans, nonbinary, and queer individuals, often seek trauma-informed care (Marich, 2024, p. 79).

Marich (2024) further highlights the importance of ending stigma and discrimination around dissociative disorders, a theme she also deeply explores in her 2023 book. In the flipchart, she provides a chart that contrasts myths and truths about dissociation, which can serve as an educational tool for both clinicians and clients to challenge biases and misconceptions (Marich, 2024, p. 79).

Overview of the Flipchart

Jamie Marich, a seasoned trauma and dissociation specialist, has created The Dissociation Made Simple Flipchart to make the content of her previous book more accessible in therapeutic settings. While her 2023 book, Dissociation Made Simple: A Stigma-Free Guide to Embracing Your Dissociative Mind and Navigating Daily Life, offers a comprehensive exploration of dissociation through narratives, theories, and case studies, this flipchart distills those concepts into practical tools that can be directly applied in therapy sessions. The flipchart is designed with visual aids, exercises, and discussion prompts, making these ideas highly adaptable for clinical practice. Marich’s emphasis on trauma-informed and client-centred approaches is evident throughout, allowing for flexibility in the order and modification of exercises based on client needs and feedback. This adaptability is particularly important when working with diverse populations, including Two-Spirit, trans, nonbinary, and queer clients, as it allows for a more inclusive and personalized approach to care (Marich, 2024, p. 4).

The flipchart is divided into sections that cover a range of key topics related to trauma and dissociation. For example, it includes exercises on “Creating Your ‘Safe Enough’ Harbor,” which helps clients explore the concept of safety beyond the unrealistic expectation of feeling completely safe in any situation (Marich, 2024, p. 17). Marich emphasizes that safety is subjective and often needs to be redefined as “safe enough” rather than an absolute state, recognizing the complexities of trauma survivors’ experiences. This nuanced approach can be particularly helpful in Canadian clinical settings, where clients from diverse backgrounds may have unique understandings and experiences of safety.

Marich also encourages the use of creative processes like visual journaling, expressive arts, or making playlists as complementary practices to traditional therapeutic methods. These creative practices not only help clients process their dissociative experiences but also serve as a means of personal expression and empowerment. For instance, clients may use the flipchart’s exercises to create visual representations of their internal worlds or “parts,” such as Fraser’s Table or the Wheel of Tolerance model (Marich, 2024, p. 114). These visual tools help in mapping dissociative experiences, offering a tangible way to understand and communicate about complex internal states. This approach aligns with Marich’s belief that trauma and dissociation work should be dynamic, client-led, and grounded in an understanding of each individual’s unique experience (Marich, 2024, p. 4).

Moreover, the flipchart serves as a bridge between Western psychological frameworks and other cultural or spiritual approaches to understanding dissociation. It includes perspectives from Indigenous practices, Shamanic traditions, and non-Western understandings of trauma, which provide a more holistic view of dissociation that can resonate with clients who may find mainstream psychological models insufficient (Marich, 2024, p. 30). This integration of diverse perspectives makes the flipchart a versatile tool that can be used to meet the needs of various client populations in Canada.

By offering these varied methods and tools, the flipchart helps both therapists and clients navigate the often challenging terrain of trauma and dissociation. Therapists can use the visual aids to facilitate discussions and build rapport, while clients can gain a clearer understanding of their dissociative experiences and develop skills for managing them. This resource supports a more collaborative approach to therapy, where clients are empowered to actively participate in their healing process.

Key Concepts Covered in the Flipchart

1. Understanding Trauma and Dissociation: Marich explains that trauma, derived from the Greek word meaning “wound,” can take many forms, both physical and emotional. She also emphasizes that dissociation, from the Latin “dissociātiō,” meaning “to sever,” is often a protective mechanism that allows individuals to manage overwhelming or painful experiences. Dissociation can range from daydreaming to more complex dissociative disorders like Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) (Marich, 2024, p. 8).

2. Adaptive vs. Maladaptive Dissociation: One of the core ideas presented in the flipchart is distinguishing between adaptive and maladaptive dissociation. Marich notes that dissociative responses are often adaptive at the time of trauma, serving to protect the self from extreme stress or pain. However, these same responses can become maladaptive when they interfere with daily functioning or relationships (Marich, 2024, p. 53).

3. Grounding, Anchoring, and Settling Techniques: The flipchart provides numerous exercises for grounding and anchoring—techniques designed to bring individuals back to the present moment. Marich acknowledges that traditional grounding methods might not work for everyone, especially those with chronic trauma histories, and she encourages practitioners to adapt these exercises to fit individual needs (Marich, 2024, p. 77).

4. The Window and Wheel of Tolerance Models: Marich introduces the “Window of Tolerance” and “Wheel of Tolerance” models as tools to help individuals understand their capacity to stay present with difficult emotions or sensations. These models are particularly useful for those with dissociative disorders to gauge their current state and adjust their coping strategies accordingly (Marich, 2024, p. 10).

5. Mapping and Communicating with Parts: For clients who experience internal multiplicity (having multiple parts of self or identities), Marich offers several frameworks like Fraser’s Table, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Jungian Archetypes for mapping out these parts and fostering internal communication (Marich, 2024, p. 114).

6. Ending Stigma and Discrimination: Marich strongly advocates for normalizing dissociation and ending the stigma associated with it. She references significant research that debunks myths about Dissociative Identity Disorder and emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed care that does not pathologize dissociative experiences (Marich, 2024, p. 79).

7. Creating a “Safe Enough” Harbor: Marich challenges the conventional therapeutic concept of a “Safe Place” by introducing the idea of a “Safe Enough” Harbor. This concept acknowledges that for many trauma survivors, feeling completely safe is often unrealistic or unattainable. Instead, Marich encourages the creation of environments or relationships that feel “safe enough” to allow for therapeutic work. This idea is particularly helpful in validating the nuanced experiences of safety among trauma survivors and creating more realistic therapeutic expectations (Marich, 2024, p. 17).

8. The Wide World of Parts and Parts Mapping Exercises: The flipchart includes a comprehensive section on understanding and mapping “parts” of the self, which is particularly relevant for those who experience internal multiplicity or identify with having “parts” or “alters.” Marich introduces creative methods like Fraser’s Table, the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, and Jungian Archetypes to help individuals and therapists collaboratively explore their internal landscapes. This section allows for a deeper exploration of identity, self-awareness, and internal communication, which can be crucial in managing dissociative experiences (Marich, 2024, p. 114).

9. Communication and Collaboration Between Parts: Building on the concept of parts mapping, Marich emphasizes the importance of fostering effective communication and collaboration between different parts of the self. She includes exercises like writing dialogues between parts or using movement and creative expressions to facilitate this communication. This approach encourages clients to develop a more integrated and harmonious relationship with their internal system, helping to reduce inner conflict and enhance overall well-being (Marich, 2024, p. 149).

10. Intersections of Dissociation with Other Diagnoses and Experiences: The flipchart addresses how dissociation often intersects with other mental health conditions, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Complex PTSD, ADHD, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Marich includes insights from contributors who share their personal experiences of living with these intersecting conditions. This section is particularly valuable for clinicians in understanding the complexity of dissociative experiences and for clients in recognizing that their experiences may not fit neatly into one diagnostic category (Marich, 2024, p. 65-70).

11. Expanding Beyond Western Psychology and Integrating Holistic Approaches: Marich integrates perspectives from non-Western psychology, Indigenous practices, and spiritual traditions to provide a more holistic view of dissociation. This section encourages therapists to be open to diverse methods of understanding and healing dissociation, beyond the confines of traditional Western psychological models. This integrative approach supports a more culturally sensitive practice that can resonate with a diverse client base, including those in Canada (Marich, 2024, p. 30).

12. Personalizing Grounding and Mindfulness Practices: While grounding and mindfulness are central techniques in trauma therapy, Marich stresses the need for personalization. She discusses best practices for making mindfulness and grounding exercises more accessible, such as keeping eyes open, adjusting the duration of exercises, and allowing for movement. These adaptations are designed to meet the unique needs of each client, particularly those who find traditional methods triggering or overwhelming (Marich, 2024, p. 77).

How This Flipchart Stands Out

One of the standout features of The Dissociation Made Simple Flipchart is its focus on visual aids and interactive exercises. Unlike many traditional texts that focus on theoretical knowledge, this flipchart provides a hands-on approach that allows for immediate application in therapy sessions. It includes diagrams, charts, and activity pages that can be used directly with clients to explore and map their experiences of dissociation, making abstract concepts more concrete and accessible. This hands-on approach is especially helpful for clients who may struggle with more traditional talk therapy and benefit from visual and experiential learning methods.

Another key element that sets this flipchart apart is its flexibility. Marich offers a range of exercises and encourages therapists to adapt them to suit their clients’ individual needs and cultural contexts. This adaptability supports a more personalized therapeutic process, which is crucial for effective trauma work. For example, exercises like “Mapping Your Parts” or “Creating Your ‘Safe Enough’ Harbor” can be modified in terms of language, length, and focus to better align with a client’s unique experiences and comfort levels (Marich, 2024, p. 114, p. 17).

Marich’s commitment to inclusivity is evident throughout the flipchart, with careful attention to using non-stigmatizing and gender-inclusive language. The emphasis on adapting exercises to fit the diverse needs of clients is particularly valuable for therapists working with marginalized populations in Canada, such as Two-Spirit, trans, nonbinary, and queer communities. This approach not only fosters a sense of safety but also encourages individuals to reclaim their narratives around trauma and dissociation. By highlighting the voices and experiences of individuals from various backgrounds, including Indigenous perspectives and non-Western understandings of dissociation, the flipchart bridges gaps between different worldviews and therapeutic practices, making it a versatile resource (Marich, 2024, p. 30).

Additionally, the flipchart promotes a collaborative therapeutic environment where clients are not passive recipients of treatment but active participants in their healing journey. Marich’s approach empowers clients by providing them with tools and exercises that they can use independently outside of therapy sessions. This self-directed component encourages clients to engage with their healing process in a meaningful way and fosters a sense of autonomy. For example, clients are invited to use creative outlets like visual journaling, music playlists, or expressive arts as a means of exploring their inner world and expressing their experiences (Marich, 2024, p. 4).

The flipchart also stands out for its integration of both scientific knowledge and holistic practices. While it incorporates established psychological models, such as the Window of Tolerance and Internal Family Systems, it equally values non-clinical approaches, including Shamanic traditions, yoga, and spiritual practices. This integration allows therapists and clients to draw on a diverse set of tools and perspectives that may resonate more deeply depending on their backgrounds and beliefs. This inclusive approach can be especially meaningful for clients who feel marginalized or alienated by conventional mental health frameworks (Marich, 2024, p. 30).

Finally, The Dissociation Made Simple Flipchart excels in breaking down complex concepts related to trauma and dissociation into simpler, more digestible pieces. This is particularly beneficial for therapists who are new to working with dissociation or for clients who may find psychological jargon intimidating. The accessible language and clear explanations help demystify dissociation and trauma, making it easier for clients to understand their experiences without feeling overwhelmed (Marich, 2024, p. 8).

By focusing on visual learning, inclusivity, client empowerment, adaptability, and integration of diverse healing practices, The Dissociation Made Simple Flipchart provides a unique and comprehensive resource for both clinicians and clients working through dissociative experiences.

Conclusion

The Dissociation Made Simple Flipchart by Jamie Marich is a powerful resource for anyone interested in understanding dissociation and trauma. It demystifies complex psychological concepts and provides practical tools for healing and growth. Whether you are a therapist looking for a visual aid to use in your sessions or an individual seeking to understand dissociation better, this flipchart offers something valuable. The flipchart’s focus on inclusivity, flexibility, and integrative approaches makes it a standout tool in the field of trauma therapy. It provides not just theoretical knowledge but actionable steps for clients and clinicians to engage deeply with the process of healing.

Marich’s approach of combining both Western psychological frameworks with holistic and culturally sensitive practices allows therapists to tailor interventions more effectively, meeting the diverse needs of their clients. The practical exercises, visual aids, and client-centred language make the flipchart accessible and easy to use, even for those who may be new to working with dissociative disorders or trauma. By fostering a collaborative therapeutic environment, the flipchart empowers clients to reclaim their narratives and work towards a more integrated sense of self.

To experience the full benefit of this resource, you can borrow the book from your local library using the BC government website or purchase it from local bookshops like Cross and Crows Books, Little Sisters in Vancouver, Glad Day Bookshop in Toronto, or Halifax Bookmark in Halifax, NS. While I am not an affiliate of these bookstores, I believe in supporting local queer-inclusive bookstores across Canada. By purchasing from these independent shops, you not only support community-focused businesses but also help foster a more diverse and inclusive literary landscape.

If the themes and approaches in this book resonate with you, consider taking the next step in your healing journey. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with Audrey Wolfe, RCC (she/they) here to explore how trauma-informed care can support you. Alternatively, you can join the waitlist to work with me, Clayre Sessoms, RP, RCT, RCC, RCAT, CCC, ATR-BC (she/they), and take advantage of my expertise in trauma therapy, expressive arts, and integrative healing practices by signing up here.

This flipchart is more than just a clinical tool—it is an invitation to explore dissociation with curiosity and compassion, and to engage in a healing process that honours each person’s unique experience. Whether you are just starting your journey of understanding trauma or are a seasoned therapist looking for innovative ways to support your clients, The Dissociation Made Simple Flipchart provides a comprehensive, inclusive, and adaptable resource for anyone committed to the path of healing.

References

Marich, J. (2024). The Dissociation Made Simple Flipchart: A Visual Guide for Clinicians Working with Dissociative Clients. North Atlantic Books.

Marich, J. (2023). Dissociation made simple: A stigma-free guide to embracing your dissociative mind and navigating daily life. North Atlantic Books.