2015 International Trauma & Dissociation Benefiting TOP DD Studies

2015 International Trauma & Dissociation Conference Presented by Ivory Garden:

2015 International Trauma and Dissociation Conference:  Fundraiser to Benefit the 'Treatment of Patients with Dissociative Disorders (TOP DD) Studies'.

This Years' Theme:

"How the Past Affects the Now"

Adult survivors of child abuse experience daily struggles related to what and how they learned to react to abusive situations that are no longer happening. Survivors, their supporters, and the mental health community also struggle with a misinformed public and lack of mental health services. All of these create overwhelming challenges for dissociative clients, mental health professionals, and supporters including all who work with or treat those affected by early childhood trauma.

Ivory Garden is hosting this conference to benefit the TOP DD Studies.

Who is invited?

Survivors of trauma and/or those who have a 'Dissociative Disorder':

We would love to see all of you at the conference. You will get a chance to meet and hear others who have experienced trauma as well as professionals who have vast experience and knowledge in the area of trauma and dissociation including: Dissociative Identity Disorder, Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), mind-control, ritual abuse, pharmacology, therapy models, hospitalization, service dogs, outcome of current research studies, and more.

Supporters of survivors:

If you personally support a trauma survivors or have an interest in learning about how and why early childhood trauma affects adult survivors, you will better understand the needs of survivors and hear valid and reliable information from experts in the field.

Mental health clinicians, students, and other professionals:

All professionals and students who want to learn about trauma and dissociation are welcome to attend. 16 credit units with certificate are available - see Ivory Garden Conference Site for more details.

This is a one-of-a-kind conference. First, it benefits survivors, clinicians, and supporters on several levels. The objectives are:

1. Attendees will understand how and why public opinion has effected trauma survivors’ ability to obtain appropriate mental health care today.
2. Attendees will understand how and why childhood trauma affects survivors’ current reactions and beliefs.
3. Attendees will leave the conference with an overall knowledge of trauma and dissociation today and skills that can be used in everyday life and in the therapeutic environment.

Besides gaining the experience of the conference, everyone is also supporting this fundraising event to benefit TOP DD studies. Please, register and join us for this unique experience.

All workshops and plenaries will either be educational or fun and interactive. This conference will be much like last year, only better! If you are interested in how others felt about the 2014 Conference, please visit the http://igdid.org/?page_id=2510. here. All attendees are welcome to participate in all workshops and plenaries. We do not designate by name-tag or in anyway whether you are clinician, survivor, or supporter unless requested.

The conference will begin on Thursday evening (Oct. 15th) with a short welcome. We have specially priced rooms (while they last) Oct. 15th - Oct. 18th available - Book Rooms Here. The conference officially begins on Friday morning at 8:15 a.m. with Colin Ross, M.D. speaking. There are breaks throughout the days. A hospitality room will be available for folks to relax. Lunch will be provided in the banquet room on Friday and Saturday. There will be no host bar reception on Friday night and entertainment on Saturday evening. The conference will end on Sunday evening at about 4:30 p.m. with a departure gathering until about 6:30 p.m. See the schedule for more information.

Every consideration has been made to ensure your comfort during your stay. The venue is accommodating, the workshops and plenaries are presented by experts in their field with a consideration of the mixed audience; the schedule is carefully crafted to meet everyone's interests, and hosts and hotel staff are available at all times.

In keeping with our mission and purpose, net contributions raised on behalf of this event will be donated to the 'Treatment of Patients with Dissociative Disorders (TOP DD) Studies'.

We are excited to host this fundraiser on behalf of the dedicated team of the TOP DD Studies:

These studies consistently reflect scientific evidence demonstrating that when clients with Dissociative Identity Disorder receive trauma-focused psychotherapy, their symptoms improve. Likewise, when they do not receive appropriate treatment, just as any other population, symptoms persists or worsen. Because early childhood trauma and dissociation are related, we must support these studies and dismiss rhetoric and public stigma that creates the illusion of controversy about dissociative disorders. There is NO controversy, but rather truth that all children and adults who have experienced abuse deserve appropriate treatment, and that appropriate treatment has been scientifically researched and is available to everyone through education and awareness - especially during conferences such as this one.

This is everyone's chance to learn from the experts about dissociative disorders and approaches to appropriate treatment as well as support these amazing researchers to further provide studies that promote healing for those already hurt enough.

About The TOP DD Studies

"Few studies have assessed how patients with dissociative disorders (DD) respond to treatment. The paucity of research contributes to the limited awareness of DD and the lack of training for treatment providers.

The Treatment of Patients with Dissociative Disorders (TOP DD) Studies examine DD treatment process and progress in the service of identifying the most effective treatments for DD. Finding the most beneficial and cost effective interventions for DD patients is crucial because DD are associated with severe symptoms and considerable suffering, serious impairment in functioning, and high treatment costs. So far, the TOP DD research team has conducted two studies: A prospective, naturalistic study of treatment outcome among DD patients from around the world (“the naturalistic treatment study”), and a survey aimed at capturing DD experts' recommendations to identify the specific treatment interventions experts have found effective at various stages in DD treatment (“the expert survey”).

Thanks to the generous sharing of time and treatment experiences by our TOP DD participants, the naturalistic treatment study was very successful. We were able to recruit approximately 290 therapists and their patients from 19 countries around the world — the largest and only international study of dissociative disorders. The consistent reports of patients and therapists in the naturalistic study demonstrated that DD treatment is associated with decreased symptoms and improved functioning. Data collected at four time points across 30 months revealed that over the course of this period, DD patients in treatment exhibited less depression, dissociation, PTSD, and general distress as well as decreases in suicide attempts, self-injurious behaviors, and hospitalizations. In addition, therapist ratings indicated that patients had also improved in adaptive functioning.

The Expert Survey, which surveyed 36 international experts in the treatment of DD, underscored the importance of providing DD-related information as part of treatment. The experts recommended that for DD patients in the early stages of treatment the following should be emphasized: establishing and maintaining safety, providing education about symptoms and their management, developing healthy coping skills including grounding (to increase control over dissociation), appropriate self-care, emotion regulation, and containment skills (to manage intrusive trauma symptoms).

Our next study, the TOP DD Network study, will examine whether a web-based intervention, in combination with individual psychotherapy, is more effective for DD patients than individual psychotherapy alone. The TOP DD Network program is a year-long web-based educational program for DD patients and their therapists that is informed by the results of our previous studies. More specifically, the TOP DD Network program provides education about DD and healthy coping skills (including managing dissociation, unsafe urges and emotions) with a focus on the enhancement of DD patients’ safety." source:http://topddstudy.com/

Don't miss this unique three full-day event of plenaries, workshops, and live entertainment presented by world renowned experts in the field of trauma and dissociation. Continuing Education Units and Ethic Units are provided with certificate through the NASW for Licensed Social Workers, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists and Licensed Mental Health Counselors. Provider number is #1975-362. - see more information as it is updated here: 2015 Conference Schedule.

Seats are Limited - Register Now!!





Take Advantage of Reduced Rates - Book Your Room!!

Learn More About How You Can Help!!
Visit Our Fundraising Site!!

We look forward to seeing everyone there. For more information and updates, check this site often.

If you have questions or need help with anything, contact:

Pat Goodwin, President

Ivory Garden
felicity4us2@gmail.com

Ivory Garden 2015 'Trauma and Dissociation' Conference Guest Speakers:

Introducing the 2015 Trauma and Dissociation Conference Speakers:

COLIN A. ROSS, M.D.

Dr. Ross is an internationally renowned clinician, researcher, author, and lecturer in the field of trauma-related disorders. He is the Founder and President of the Colin A. Ross Institute for Psychological Trauma. Dr. Ross is the Executive Medical Director of three trauma programs located at Timberlawn Mental Health System in Dallas, Texas; Forest View Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Del Amo Hospital in Torrance, California. Dr. Ross provides treatment for patients with trauma related disorders and symptoms. This would include treatment for: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD); Dissociative Disorders; Borderline Personality Disorder; Addictive Disorder; Anxiety Disorders; Depression, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. The symptoms treated and the admission criteria are: suicidal ideation; homicidal ideation; self-destructive behaviors; addictive behaviors, and inability to function. Dr. Ross has written extensively on the subject of dissociation and trauma. His latest book is, Trauma Model Therapy: A Treatment Approach for Trauma Dissociation and Complex Comorbidity. Other books by Dr. Ross include: The Trauma Model: A Solution to the Problem of Comorbidity in Psychiatry; and Schizophrenia: Innovations in Diagnosis and Treatment. Dr Ross’ books are available through his web site at www.rossinst.com, at www.amazon.com and at area bookstores. Dr. Ross has authored 170 professional papers and 27 books. He has reviewed for numerous professional journals, is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and is a Past President of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation. In addition, Dr. Ross has served as an expert witness in over 50 court cases, consulted on television, movie, and video productions on trauma-related disorders. Dr. Ross has also produced six educational videos and CD’s for mental health professionals on the treatment of trauma-based disorders.

RICHARD LOEWENSTEIN, M.D.

Dr. Richard J. Loewenstein is a Nationally and Internationally known Senior Psychiatrist and the Founder and Medical Director of the Trauma Disorders Program. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to research and clinical studies of trauma and dissociation. Dr. Loewenstein is Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD.

A. STEVEN FRANKEL, PH.D., J.D.

Steve Frankel is Board Certified Clinical and Forensic Psychologist and an Attorney at Law, who practices both professions in San Francisco’s East Bay. A past Director of Clinical Training and current Clinical Prof. of Psychology at USC, he began recognizing childhood trauma in his adult patient case-load in 1980 and has specialized in working with that population ever since. He joined the Int’l. Society for the Study of Trauma & Dissociation in the 1990s and was the consultant to the Trauma Program at Del Amo Hospital from 1993 until 2001. He was President of the ISSTD in 2002 and has been active in developing and teaching courses in trauma treatment as well as publishing chapters in books and professional journals in the trauma field.

A. LAURA S. BROWN, PH.D

 Laura S. Brown is a clinical and forensic psychologist in independent practice in Seattle, Washington. A writer and speaker on feminist therapy theory and practice, she offers workshops and trainings to professionals and the public on such topics as trauma treatment, cultural competence, psychological assessment, and ethics. She is also the founder and Director of the Fremont Community Therapy Project, a low-fee psychotherapy training clinic in Seattle.

ROBIN SHAPIRO, LICSW

I've been doing psychotherapy in Seattle since 1981. I’m a synthesizer and interpreter of therapy techniques. I don’t believe that any one method holds the key to every problem. Important tools and perspectives in my work include EMDR; Hypnotherapy; Cognitive Behavioral; Narrative; Object Relations; Differentiation-based couple work, and Affect and Body-oriented therapies. My work week includes three days of private practice with individual and couples and one day of consultation to other therapists. The rest of the time I'm reading, writing, walking, or hanging out with my husband, Doug Plummer, Author: Trauma Treatments Handbook, Protocols Across the Spectrum. (Norton, 2010) Editor, EMDR Solutions: Pathways to Healing (Norton, 2005) EMDR Solutions II: Depression, Eating Disorders, Performance and More (Norton, 2009). Board of Directors of EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Program.

THOMAS G. CARLTON, M.D.

Thomas G. Carlton, M.D. is a psychiatrist, clinician and teacher. He is a fellow of the International Society for the Study of Dissociation (ISSTD), and a former Treasurer and Past President of ISSTD. Dr. Carlton has presented at ISSTD conferences, and has taught for the ISSTD Professional Training Program at standard and advanced levels for about 15 years.

Dr. Carlton spent the first half of his professional career as a US Navy psychiatrist, treating military personnel and their families. On retiring from the Navy, he entered solo private practice, with a focus on trauma-related disorders.

For eight years, he was the Medical Director of the Center for Emotional Trauma Recovery at Lake Chelan, an acute inpatient unit for dissociative disorders and other disorders related to complex trauma. Since leaving Chelan, Dr. Carlton has worked for two managed care companies, trained military Family Medicine Residents in the aspects of behavioral health care that people bring to their personal physician, and worked as a clinician in a Naval Hospital serving US Marines and their families.

Dr. Carlton is board certified in both psychiatry and addiction medicine. He currently resides in San Diego, CA.

JOAN C. GOLSTON, DCSW, LICSW

Joan C. Golston, DCSW, LICSW, is a therapist, supervisor and clinical and forensic consultant in private practice in Seattle, Washington. She has been Chair of the NASW Washington Chapter Ethics Committee for some 15 years, was honored as the Chapter’s 2006 Social Worker of the Year, and is a Fellow and Director of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISST-D). She is a co-author of the recently published Guidelines for Treating Dissociative Identity Disorder in Adults, 3rd revision. Joan teaches ISST-D international courses on the psychotherapy of the dissociative disorders, and has served as a consultant in a number of legal cases regarding ethics and professional standards. In November, she will present a pre-conference institute on “Ethics in the Treatment of Trauma” in Montreal. Joan is a warm and engaging speaker who has presented over a hundred professional lectures and workshops, and earned a reputation as a teacher who makes complex topics easily comprehensible and even entertaining.

DR. ALISON MILLER, Ph.D.

Alison Miller is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. She worked for many years in child and youth mental health services, treating children and families. She is the original developer of the Living in Families Effectively (LIFE) Seminars (www.lifeseminars.com), and has co-authored two books on parenting with Dr Allison Rees. Since 1991, Dr Miller has been treating and learning from persons with dissociative disorders, in particular survivors of ritual abuse and mind control, and has developed a protocol for effective treatment.

LYNN CROOK, M.Ed.

Lynn Crook was a therapist when she recovered memories of childhood sexual abuse. Since her successful lawsuit, she’s been investigating false memory claims. She presented her findings in the U.S., England, and at the United Nations. She joined a comedy improv group to handle any hecklers that might show up. They didn’t. Lynn is an editor emeritus of Treating Abuse Today, and is writing a book she’s currently calling “An Inconvenient Crime."

MARY KNIGHT,Writer,Filmmaker

After working as a social worker for over 20 years, Mary Knight started a new career as a full time filmmaker and writer. She is a survivor of incest, child pornography, child prostitution, and other ritualistic child abuse. The first scene of her feature film can be seen at www.SisterMarysAngel.com. Her fifteen minute film about her first marriage is available to interested domestic violence agencies and individuals at www.OneMansAnger.com.

JODI HOBBS, MBA
President, SIA

Jodi Hobbs has a BA in IT and an MBA. Working in the technology industry for over 15 years she has helped many for profit and non profit organizations with their technical needs. Jodi has a successful tech based business. She is a survivor of Victory Christian Academy, a youth treatment facility that once operated in Ramona, CA. VCA was closed after scathing accusations of abuse were leveled against the proprietor. Mrs. Hobbs formed Survivors of Institutional Abuse (SIA) to help those affected by abusive treatment in behavioral modification type programs. “SIA is about healing and leading a positive, peaceful and healthy life. Anything we can do to assist in getting a survivor on positive path.”

LANI KENT, Therapeutic Arts Facilitator

Lani Kent is a Therapeutic Arts Facilitator; Speaker; Writer, and Artist /Owner of “Healing Expressions”. She has a compassionate heart for survivors of traumatic life experiences. For over ten years has offered adjunct expressive arts services, client support, consultation to therapeutic professionals, recovery groups, and clients, through “Restorative Creativity” individual and group workshops. Lani has in depth knowledge of the dissociative process as expressed through art, presents at conferences on these topics, and offers “Healing Expressions” vendor exhibits. She is passionate about sharing an authentic expression of the recovery journey in the hopes that others will find the courage to share their own stories and find a voice for the wounded places within.
Website: www.healingexpressionsbylani.com

AMY SOTO

AmyAnna Soto has over 20 years of lived experience in trauma and sleep disturbances. Lived experience in trauma includes sexual, physical, emotional abuse, rape, stalking, and harassment. She has chronic nightmares and severe sleep apnea. AmyAnna spent the last 12 years actively healing and reinventing herself.
As the Chairman of the California Group for the Ivory Garden Trauma and Dissociation Organization, AmyAnna started The California Trauma and Dissociation Group. As a professional acrylic, mixed media artist and a published poet, AmyAnna feels her best when helping people heal and being creative. She is a volunteer and public speaker for the organizations Peers Speak Out for Hope and Each Mind Matters. Both organizations are dedicated to ending the stigma against mental illness and promoting hope and awareness.
AmyAnna worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant and a financial analyst where she learned the importance of teamwork and professionalism. She was a volunteer HIV counselor and phlebotomist. Having such a diverse past in helping people in life’s worst moments has given AmyAnna great compassion and empathy for others.

LB LEE, BA

LB has been creating educational comics on the subject since 2008. Their work is used by therapists and clinics in Texas, Massachusetts, and Ohio. It has also been used by multiples and laymen in the US, New Zealand, Australia, Germany, Sweden, and the UK. They have done presentations on comics, mental health, and multiplicity at the Massachusetts Indy Comics Expo in 2012 and the Ephemera Zine Fest in 2014. They have also been educating one-on-one since 2007. During their workshop, survivors will learn new coping skills allowing them to help themselves and others. Supporters and clinicians will learn new skills to teach their multiple clients and friends and gain a better understanding of multiplicity.

BoyyM

Note: Some speakers are not listed here, but will be listed on the program at the conference for their privacy.

2015 Trauma and Dissociation Conference Exhibits

Ivory Garden is proud to welcome the 2015 International Trauma and Dissociation Conference exhibitors:

[caption id="attachment_3954" align="aligncenter" width="268"] TOP DD Study[/caption]

"There have been few studies assessing how patients with dissociative disorders (DD) respond to treatment. The paucity of research contributes to the limited awareness of DD and the lack of training for treatment providers. The goal of the TOP DD studies is to assess treatment outcome among people with DD, and, ultimately, to learn how to provide the most effective treatment to them. So far, the TOP DD research team has conducted two studies, one a prospective, naturalistic study of treatment outcome among DD patients from around the world (hence forward called the “TOP DD study”), and another which surveyed DD experts for their recommendations of specific treatment interventions that are effective at various stages in DD treatment." We look forward to seeing this exhibit where we can pick up information and meet everyone. (This conference is being held as a fundraiser to benefit the TOP DD study.

[caption id="attachment_3913" align="aligncenter" width="300"] ISST-D[/caption]

The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation is an international, non-profit, professional association organized to develop and promote comprehensive, clinically effective and empirically based resources and responses to trauma and dissociation and to address its relevance to other theoretical constructs. We are looking forward to stopping by their exhibit table this year.

[caption id="attachment_3912" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Professional Books[/caption]

Professional Books will exhibit a book display bringing selected titles based on our topics as well as speakers' books. You will be able to purchase books, and speakers will also have exhibits where you can buy their books and/or get books signed. This is an amazing addition to our conference this year. Professional Books is a sponsor of this event.




Colin A. Ross Institute For Psychological Trauma
The Colin A. Ross Institute for Psychological Trauma
The Colin A. Ross Institute was formed in 1995 to further the understanding of psychological trauma and its consequences by providing educational services, research, and clinical treatment of trauma based disorders. Colin Ross will be exhibiting at this table. We welcome him back and also as a sponsor of this event.


Sheppard Pratt Trauma Disorders Program

"Our program is nationally and internationally recognized for expert inpatient treatment services for psychological trauma recovery. Our program utilizes an intensive multi-disciplinary treatment approach through individual therapy, milieu therapy, and process-oriented, experiential and psycho-educational group therapies. Our expertly trained treatment team provides a structured, supportive environment to facilitate stabilization and step-down to other levels of care, both in our continuum and in home communities." We are happy to welcome this exhibit as well as their sponsorship this year. 6501 North Charles Street,Towson, Maryland 21204, 410-938-3584.


 Timberlawn Mental Health System

"Our program is under the direction of Colin A. Ross M.D., an internationally renowned clinician, researcher, and author. The program is based on Dr. Ross’ “Trauma Model,” which emphasizes the effects of trauma as multiple symptoms expressed by multiple diagnoses. The unresolved trauma and the resulting attachment conflicts are the common themes throughout these various diagnoses. A goal of the program is to reduce the number of admissions and overall cost by addressing the core attachment issues." This exhibit was a favorite last year, and we are happy to see them returning as a sponsor.



EMDR Solutions
Robin Shapiro, M.S.W., L.I.C.S.W.

Robin will be speaking also. We look forward to meeting her and seeing her exhibit table. She is the author of: Trauma Treatments Handbook, Protocols Across the Spectrum. (Norton, 2010) Editor, EMDR Solutions: Pathways to Healing (Norton, 2005) EMDR Solutions II: Depression, Eating Disorders, Performance and More (Norton, 2009). And, she is on the Board of Directors of EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Program. Welcome Robin.


Survivors of Institutional Abuse

SIA is a nonprofit organization. SIA seeks to enable and empower help in healing adults who have experienced past childhood abuse to live their lives in the present, rather than continuing to experience today as an extension of their traumatic past. These services offered range based on the needs of the individual. SIA is a sponsor of the conference. We look forward to seeing the exhibit and meeting everyone.



Laura S. Brown, PhD.

Laura S. Brown is a clinical and forensic psychologist in independent practice in Seattle, Washington. A writer and speaker on feminist therapy theory and practice, she offers workshops and trainings to professionals and the public on such topics as trauma treatment, cultural competence, psychological assessment, and ethics. She is also the founder and Director of the Fremont Community Therapy Project. Her book "Your turn for care: Surviving the aging and death of the adults who harmed you" is fantastic and available at her website and at the conference. We look forward to seeing her this year again.


 "Healing Expressions Art and Gifts by Lani Kent"


2014 Trauma and Dissociation Conference Exhibit

Lani's exhibit last year was amazing. We are glad to welcome her back this year to share her art and extraordinary talents with everyone.


DR. ALISON MILLER

We welcome Dr. Miller and look forward to meeting her this year. Alison Miller is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. She worked for many years in child and youth mental health services, treating children and families. She is the original developer of the Living in Families Effectively (LIFE) Seminars (www.lifeseminars.com), and has co-authored two books on parenting with Dr Allison Rees. Since 1991, Dr Miller has been treating and learning from persons with dissociative disorders, in particular survivors of ritual abuse and mind control, and has developed a protocol for effective treatment. Alison is also a sponsor for this conference.


Chairman of the California Group for the Ivory Garden Trauma and Dissociation Organization

Welcome the Ivory Garden Trauma and Dissociation Group. We look forward to seeing this exhibit. The group has been working hard creating original artwork, t-shirts, cards, and other crafts. We are exited to hear more from them. They will bring pamphlets and information about their group and all that they have done and are planning for next year - a regional conference? Yep! We should have more information by October. Great job all!

Thank you to all exhibitors. The tables are strategically placed in this 5 star hotel where everyone entering the hotel walks past them. We proudly support each of you on your hard work and especially, to the sponsors.

We are sorry that all exhibit tables are filled. If you wish to sponsor this conference, please contact Ivory Garden. Thanks again - all.


Conference Brochure Upload

2014 Trauma and Dissociation Conference - A Professional Conference - CEU's ?

For the "2014 Trauma and Dissociation Conference" being held Oct.3-5th in Seattle attendees will include clinicians and survivors of child abuse - as well as students, volunteers, and supporters of survivors.

This conference is a professional conference in that ceu's are offered for clinician, speakers are specialists in the field of trauma and dissociation, and those who have dissociative disorders are given the ability to learn more about trauma and dissociation. 
Felicity Lee 8/12/14 all rights protected.  Do not copy without permission.

Trauma and Dissociation 2014 Conference - ugent update

Hi Everyone,

This is a notice to those who may be interested in attending this conference and in need of lodging.   Many of you are familiar with the Seattle area and know that late Sept. and early October are popular tourist times here - as well as for conference.  What can often happen is that hotels - ALL OF THEM - get booked and there are simply no hotels available at all anymore.  The hotel is reporting being booked out three months right now for the weekend of the conference.  That means that within possibly the next month, this hotel will be booked up.  Please, please - if you are at all planning on coming to this conference, book your rooms now.  You always have the option later of cancelling the rooms.  If you have questions, you can always contact me at felicity4us2@gmail.com.

We have rooms available in our block for the special prices still:

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Seattle Airport -
18740 International Boulevard, Seattle, Washington, 98188,

Please tell them that you are booking with Ivory Garden so that we get credit. If you book for longer, you can use coupons you find, etc., but still tell them to credit Ivory Garden for the rooms. Thank you.

The discounted rooms are all together and are set for Friday and Saturday nights. Ask for rates for Thursday night.

If you are sharing rooms, you can call and have them set up for each roommate. For instance, you would call in and tell them the names in your group and set up just your part (for example, for 4 ppl – 1/4th of the rate). Then, the next person would call and do the same. Any information can be changed later.

Here are the rates and information:

These rates are for 1 night (on Fri and Sat) – and are total for all guests.

Room for 1 person – $109.00 – King size bed.

Room for 2 people – $109.00 – choice of 1 king size bed or 2 queens

Room for 3 people – $114.00 – 2 queen size beds

Room for 4 people – $114.00 – 2 queen size beds

These rates are for 1 night (Thursday only) – and are total for all guests.

Room for 1-4 people – any arrangements of beds – $129.00

We only have a limited number of rooms for these prices. Please make sure that you mention Ivory Gardens when you book from our group rates.

Please give the hotel this code: IVG to let them know that you are coming for our conference and directly contact

For these special rates, contact

Ms. Bobbi Barkley, CMP CGMP | Sr. Sales Manager or ask for Kelly.

Direct (206) 248-4330

There should be no ‘pet’ charge for service dogs. Let me know if you have trouble with this.

You can have small fridge and microwave at a small charge.

We are doing what we can to get everyone here and comfortable.  It would help us tremendously, if you emailed me your name - no other information necessary until you register - so that I can make sure that you got the best rates for your rooms.

To see more about Hotel and accommodations, please click 'lodging' on our menu at website http://www.igdid.org



Thank you much,

Pat Goodwin

President Ivory Garden

Dissociative Identity Disorder: Safety in Ignorance - an article

Dissociative Identity Disorder:
Safety in Ignorance

Jamie was bred into a generational family of abuse.  They didn’t consider what they did to the child as abuse but rather ‘training’ to fit into society as expected.  She was to attend college in order to work as an attorney within the ‘organization’.   Her training began at birth.  During her early childhood, she was exposed to brutal rapes and torture by members of the organization.  Since she was viewed as an asset rather than a child with needs, the abuse came from seemingly every source.  By the age of three, the perpetrators, who were aware that abused children dissociate, had effectively set up scenarios that split her mind into several different personalities.  Before she was 5 years old, she had learned only pain, sadness, agony, and betrayal.  She knew never to tell anyone, or the punishment would be death of a friend, pet, or herself.

She learned to dissociate (go away) in order to avoid the torturous situations, never realizing that another state of mind was aware.  She learned to avoid the sad feelings of having no one there who cared enough to protect her, not knowing that another state of mind carried those feelings.  She learned that there were only two ways to avoid the ongoing agony: dissociation or suicide.  Mostly, she learned to behave normally in public and for the next 40 years, she managed to behave as if her family of origin was perfect, being the product of loving and nurturing parents.

She always knew the sad and pain inside and never forgot the threats of telling.  As long as she acted normally, all would be well in her life.  She would attend the best schools, marry well, and have the perfect family.  That was her cross to bear – her heritage.

Throughout her life, Jamie struggled with the symptoms of dissociative identity disorder (DID), as do most children who use the defense of dissociation to deal with extreme abuse.  She always felt as if her outside life were a fog, unreal and timeless.  This is called ‘derealization’ and a symptom of DID. She could never remember to eat and had no connection with her body.  It also seemed unreal.  This is called ‘depersonalization’ – another symptom of DID.  She often lost time; seemingly waking up in places she did not recognize feeling much younger than her age.  This is often termed ‘switching’ – yet another symptom of DID.  Though she lived her life in a state of self-hatred, she knew she was as she had been carefully taught – damned.

Jamie is but one in some million abused children struggling with living adult life as a survivor of abuse.  Not all have dissociative disorders, but many do – about 1-3% of the population.   Though these statistics are reality, articles and information are written by groups of ‘professionals’ who claim that there is really ‘no such thing as DID’.  These articles also invalidate the people who have been diagnosed with DID and/or treat dissociated clients.  It soon becomes obvious that the topic of trauma and dissociation is actually viewed by many as ‘controversial’.

I remember when I was first diagnosed with DID some 10 years ago.  I ran home from the doctor and began researching the diagnosis.  I learned that there were vocal groups who not only hated me, but also the few mental health professionals who I could look to for help with my symptoms.  One group, the False Memory Syndrome Foundation (FMSF), have been in the media since the 90’s spreading such nonsense that there is a syndrome called ‘false memory syndrome’.  This happens when a person remembers any childhood abuse.  Another popular tale is that therapists who treat dissociation ‘implant false abuse memories’ into their clients’ brains.  Most importantly, these folks poke fun at the DID diagnosis stating that clients come to ‘believe’ they have DID from their therapists – called ‘iatrogenic DID’ or ‘therapy induced’.    According to Dr. Paul McHugh (a well-know FMSF member):
“Once the patient permits the therapist to "talk to the part . . . who is taking those long drives," the patient is committed to having MPD and is forced to act in ways consistent with this role. The patient is then placed into care on units or in services - often titled "the dissociative service" - at the institution. She meets other patients with the same compliant responses to therapists' suggestions. She and the staff begin a continuous search for other "alters." With the discovery of the first "alter," the barrier of self-criticism and self-observation is breached. No obstacles to invention remain.

Countless numbers of personalities emerge over time. What began as two or three may develop to 99 or 100. The distressing symptoms continue as long as therapeutic attention is focused on finding more alters and sustaining the view that the problems relate to an "intriguing capacity" to dissociate or fractionate the self.

At Johns Hopkins, we see patients in whom MPD has been diagnosed because symptoms of depression have continued despite therapy elsewhere. Our referrals have been few and our experience, therefore, is only now building, probably because our views - that MPD may be a therapist-induced artifact - have only recently become generally known in our community” (McHugh, 1995).

Dr. McHugh is an educator and a doctor.  He, and others like him, have trained and are now training scores of people who have and will be entering the mental health field.  These folks were not only trained, but rewarded for accepting such nonsense as ‘truth’.

I do recall my university studies in the area of psychology.  During my some 6 years in university, I never learned about DID/MPD and only remember learning how to spell ‘dissociation’ despite that theories of dissociation were first written about during 1869, when French neurologist Pierre Janet discovered that a system of ideas split off from the main personality when he hypnotized his female patients. Soon afterward, William James, the father of American psychology, uncovered a similar phenomenon and termed the condition ‘disassociation’.  The theory of DID has been around since then.

Many have asked why our society seems to listen to and believe such garbage as ‘false memory syndrome’, ‘iatrogenic DID’, therapists having the ability to or even wanting to ‘implant memories’ in their clients’ brains.  And, for those who care, answers creep forward.  Are the members and/or followers of the FMSF (who does have a shady history) and other professionals who perpetrate this controversy financially benefitting from child abuse?  Are they just ignorant and/or too lazy to research dissociation and or the effects of trauma on children?   What’s the deal?

I have come in contact with mental health professionals who not only have set beliefs that DID does not exist, but refuse to treat it and actually emotionally abuse those who seek treatment.  Therefore, I have learned to hide, as I did as a child from unsafe people who are meant to keep us safe.  Those seeking help ‘avoid’ those who are meant to help us, because they ‘avoid’ us by believing that we aren’t ‘real’.  
As a society, we find safety in ignorance – we avoid anything that seems unsafe.  We believe what seems the safest to believe.  And, when we live this way – we die ignorant.
Why is it difficult to believe that so many folks struggle with symptoms of DID?  Clearly, there is no such ‘syndrome’ as ‘false memory syndrome’.  At least, there has never been any evidence to prove such a thing.  Therapists do not have the power to ‘implant memories’ in their clients brains, and DID happens as an affect of extreme trauma at an early age.
Is it easier to invalidate folks who have endured horrible abuse at the hands of their caretakers than to help them?  For gosh sakes – these people have lived through hell with nobody to protect or stand for them.  They aren’t suffering from ‘false memory syndrome’ or ‘iatrogenic DID’, but from horrifying flashbacks, lost time, confusing derealization and depersonalization, eating disorders, low self-esteem, relationship problems, and more.

These folks cannot regain their childhood, but deserve respect and support now as they struggle to live in a world that holds everything they always deserved.  At the very least, they should not have to fear the mental health system that has the education available to treat and finally give these folks some help.

Anyone who invalidates the reality of DID only needs to think for themselves – and, disregard those who, for whatever reason, promulgate the notion that DID is not real.  We, who have DID are real; we only need professional therapists to help us realize that.  Maybe, you don’t like ‘knowing’.  Maybe, avoiding us – dissociating our reality is easier.  Maybe, deciding that we are all looking for attention helps you get through a day.

From the very beginning of our life, we learn to act normally, to fit in with society’s expectations.  And, within our society are beliefs that hold us all together: parents nurture their children teaching them right from wrong; teachers ensure that their students behave and learn according to rules within the status quo; friends and family accept that what happens ‘behind closed doors’ is not their business; only criminals of low social standing would ever abuse a child; children cannot be believed.

These are the lies you are told.  We, with DID, live in a hell no singleton could ever understand and/or believe.  Few stand for us.  Those who do are our heroes.  They put their reputations on the line, their time caring for the adults who were never heard.  And, they put themselves out there to educate others.  
Those who care know who you are, and you know that you give us life and a strength we never realized we have always held deep inside.  We are survivors and together, we are strong.  The glue that holds us together, the foundation that holds us up is those therapists who are there for us – believing, validating and helping us heal.

I have written this article in thanks to my wonderful therapist and in asking that other therapists take the time to give us a chance.  Join adult survivors of abuse, other therapists, and supporters at the 2014 Trauma and Dissociation Conference being held on October 3-5.  We aren’t asking anyone to change their ‘beliefs’, but to come listen with an open heart to a full schedule of educational opportunities; to take part in valuable workshops and hear plenaries presented by educators and practitioners in the area of trauma and dissociation.   Please visit:  www.igdid.org.

Source: Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, July 1995 v34 n7 p957(3).

Copyright:  Felicity Lee 5/11/14

You do not have the right to copy this article without permission of the author.

Understanding Child Abuse Today

Understanding Child Abuse

Dissociative Identity Disorder Overview-2.wmv

Dissociative Identity Disorder Overview

Felicity Lee – My Statement to Members of Ivory Garden & Others

Felicity Lee – My Statement to Members of Ivory Garden & Others

I am the ‘owner’ and operator of Ivory Garden (IGDID.com), an online community (message board), where survivors of child abuse with dissociative disorders gather and talk, supporting each other and making friends. This group is not politically focused – nor, is any political agenda promoted within this group. 
  
When I started IGDID.com many years ago, I was aware that there was ‘The Backlash’ – groups of people who have been active since 1974 when child protective guidelines (CAPTA) where being enforced.   Their purpose is to isolate children and survivors of abuse/extortion from any support or protection that is legally/socially available to them. In this way, they effectively ‘silence’ those who ‘might’ endanger the abuser/predators.  They target anyone who is effective in protecting/supporting children and survivors of child abuse/extortion, including mental health professionals, teachers, reporting agencies, and yes – support groups – such as IGDID.com. 
  
“The longest-standing target of retaliation against professional child advocates appears to be the mental health professional. … as reports of children suspected of being abused or neglected increased twenty-fold, from approximately 150,000 to 3 million, between 1963 and 1993 …at the same time that adult victims of child abuse were seeking healing in support groups and in the offices of mental health professionals.  It is common and usual for any reform movement, after it achieves a certain measure of public support and sympathy (as did child protection during the 1970s and 1980s) to be subjected to an opposition movement. In the context of child protection, that opposition movement has come to be known to child advocates as "The Backlash" (Myers, 1994, Conte, 1994, Hechler, 1988).  Taken from “Retaliation Against Professionals Who Report Child Abuse” By Katherine Hine, J.D

I will, from now on, refer to these advocates for abusers/extortionists of children ‘the backlash’.  They have been responsible for the silly notions that therapists implant memories in people’s brains, that therapists create Dissociative Identity Disorder; that all victims/survivors of child abuse/extortion are liars, and other such ridiculous notions.  

But, their tactics are effective – very effective, thus far.   We have to go back a bit and remember:

“By the late eighties and early nineties, ..attack upon mental health professionals began. The identified abusers of adult victims of child abuse began to avail themselves of new third party liability theories upon which they based litigation against their adult children's therapists.  Bowman and Mertz (1996) describe with alarm the recent emergence of these increasingly novel legal theories formulated specifically for use in lawsuits in civil court seeking damages against therapists treating adult child sexual abuse survivors -- patients who are, for the most part, satisfied with the targeted therapist.

The intensity of the attack on mental health professionals escalated in 1997 with the bringing of federal indictments against Houston mental health professionals Judy Peterson, Ph.D., Richard Seward, M.D., Gloria Keraga, M.D., Sylvia Davis, M.S.W., and hospital administrator George Jerry Mueck, CPA. The defendants faced possible sentences of life imprisonment without parole apparently because the government disagreed with the diagnosis and treatment of seven patients who claimed to have been falsely convinced that they had been victims of childhood abuse.
Following five months of testimony in 1998 and 1999 by 33 government witnesses and dozens of audio and video tapes offered in evidence, a mistrial was declared in February, 1999 after the dismissals of all but 11 jury members. The results of an informal jury poll showed that, despite the fact that the defense had not yet presented its case, the jurors were strongly inclined toward acquittal.  On March 1, 1999, the government dismissed all charges against the five defendants. However, the legal costs for the defendants and the government were staggering.”   By Katherine Hine, J.D.http://www.nafcj.net/Retaliation.htm 

As we can see, facing life imprisonment for ‘supposedly’ causing a client to believe they suffered abuse, sends out a strong message to anyone working with children or survivors of child abuse. The Backlash publishes books and articles circularly sourcing each other, in order to create the illusion that they have any real evidence of their theories.   They have taken over such sites as Wikipedia in order to cause the public to ‘buy’ their propaganda.  Their most vulnerable victims are the ‘public’, and they heavily publicize anything that will sway public opinion their way.

The Backlash, as we are discovering, uses intimidation and threats (in whatever form) in order to isolate the victims and survivors of child abuse.   The biggest threat to all advocates of child abuse is their power to hurt them financially, personally, or professionally.  And, they have a strong track record of doing just that.  
Today, they remain active – though, less effective as many survivors of child abuse are beginning to come forward, name their abusers, and confront The Backlash.  Groups like the False Memory Syndrome Foundation are finding it more difficult to sue therapists and reporters of child abuse.  Their theories are no longer taken seriously.  
The Backlash now ‘send’ out internet trolls, who work anonymously to discredit and slander anyone who is effectively supporting, protecting, or treating children and survivors of child abuse in hopes that the public will read and listen to their slander.  The Backlash promotes publically anyone who protects and defends child abusers/predators and bashes, slanders, and insults those who are working to protect and support children and survivors of child abuse.  They use such public formums and sites such as Amazon, personal blogs, chat rooms, etc. to slander.  These people are called ‘trolls’, and they like to infiltrate support groups, especially facebook – befriend the members and turn them against the people who are effectively protecting and supporting them in an effort to again isolate survivors.  They use the same tactics, that survivors of child abuse recognize and react to, that their abusers used when they were young.  These tactics are confusing and damaging to survivors of child abuse who do not understand ‘why’ The Backlash would want to hurt them.  

Since 1974, The Backlash has managed to sway public opinion concerning the reality and extent of child abuse, scare professionals away from treating clients with Dissociative Identity Disorder and/or child abuse.  During that time statistics have skyrocketed until today,  the (UNODC) United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime report that:
 2 million children are subjected to prostitution in the global commercial sex trade (UNICEF)
 There are 20.9 Million victims of Trafficking World wide as of 2012, 1.5 Million victims in the United States 
 A $32 billion-a-year industry, human trafficking is on the rise and is in all 50 states (U.S. Government)
 4.5 Million of trafficked persons are sexually exploited

Someone is profiting from child abuse/exploitation.  Someone else is profiting from defending those accused of child abuse/exploitation.  Child abuse is a lucrative business, for sure, and we can only imagine to what length they will go to keep their investment safe and secure.

I never thought that ‘I’ would be targeted by The Backlash.  I mean, I simply started a board where people who had experienced child abuse could meet and talk – get some support.  And, now – I find myself targeted on the internet.  I now know how others must have felt when The Backlash intimidates and threatens good people simply because they are supporting and protecting children and survivors of child abuse. 

As I have heard others say – “it is just not worth it”  - I now understand and often feel like giving up, wondering if people will believe what they say about me even though nothing they say is true.  The Backlash use ‘skeptic’ techniques which are meant to put the question in people’s minds of whether I can be trusted.  They intimidate by digging for dirt in my personal and professional life – and, when they can’t find any – they simply make up something ‘juicy’.  It is disheartening that professional sites allow this to happen – despite their TOS which prohibits this.  

Now, I find myself in the position that, though I don’t feel that I should have to, I need to defend myself from their slanderous lies.  I hate doing this, because it puts people in the position of thinking that they must choose sides – just what The Backlash intended all along.  For me, there is no ‘side’ to take – because, there is only one side – truth.  The ‘taking side’ tactic is what created the problem we are having now – with child abuse/exploitation out of control, victims and survivors of child abuse isolated and unprotected – silenced.  I mean, what are the sides to choose from?  The Backlash is truthful and to be trusted in their protection of abusers/predators and their intimidation of anyone who protects and supports children and survivors?   Or, those working so diligently to support and protect survivors and victimized children are truthful and to be trusted?   There is no fence sitting, no common ground here.  The mistake is to consider what they say – rather than who they are, ,what they represent, and mostly, what have they done that can be seen, measured and appraised.  The public MUST take a side of either to support those who protect and defend the abusers and predators of children – or – for those who protect and support children and survivors of abuse/exploitation.  If you make the mistake of choosing based on what is ‘said’, you fall into their trap of ‘forgetting’ who they are, who they represent, and what they have to show for their ‘good’ work –  because their purpose is to create a ‘reality’ that protects ‘them’ and keeps their resources coming in.  Bottom line is much more important than being honest.  

What I don’t want to do here is to cause concern for me or IGDID.com.  Their tactics have not affected me or IGDID.com – but, not for lack of trying.  

Here is just a bit of what I contend with (Quotes from Amazon site - trolls Karmakaze and CritThink ):

“Felicity it's quite clear to me that you are about asking people for $50 a month to play in your website. You have no credentials, not a one.”

“You support MKULTRA crap because fear makes you money.”

“If I ran a support website for survivors, I'd research people like Kevin Annett BEFORE I formed any coalition with him. Sorry to say, but his tactic of taking advantage of vulnerable people under the guise of saving them, reminds me of you and Judy.”

“People can see how you team up with abusers like Kevin Annett while you claim you are trying to help people. I hope a few survivors have the guts to take you on...you are taking advantage of the very people you claim to help, asking for donations of up to $50 per person per month. “

“Let's see...set up a nonprofit...ask for donations, ask people to work for you, but don't pay them a penny. After people volunteer for hours and hours, kick them out if they question you. Call yourself an expert...even though you hold no licecense of any sort in mental health. Claim you are a victim while victimizing others.” 

“This author financially ripped off Jenny Hill by having her sign away any financial or publishing right to HER OWN LIFE! then lied that woman was in the hospital, sending her family into a tail spin, while the author cooked up a bogus letter that she admitted under scrutiny was not written by Jenny. You and Judy, what a team...financially take advantage of the very people you claim to help. Quite a theme your coalition has.”

“And you, Felicity Lee, constantly seek donations from DID survivors...what's worse is you ask them to put in hours of work on your website and don't pay them a penny. So wonder you and Kevin Annett formed a coalition.”

"CEOs of four ritual abuse survivor organizations have joined forces with...Kevin Annett...”

“And here is a constant MO with Judy and Felicity. Create an alternate reality of made up BS...mindcontrolling Nazis, floating beings, etc. Try and get vulnerable people who you say you want to help to endorse the idea...in the case of Jenny it didn't work out too well as Jenny called out Judy for her BS on national TV.” 

“Oh, and collect money...very important. Collect money from the victims you are claiming to help.”

“You're not my enemy. You're the enemy of women like Jenny Hill. Vulnerable people who pay you for your lies. “

“Team up with a man, Kevin Annett, who reabuses the sexually abused and give this man access to the women of Ivory Garden Try and get women to live in even more fear so that you can "help" them.”

“This book 22 Faces is fear mongering to groom victims so that you and your cohalition can take advantage of them. FRAUD!!!!”

These are taken directly from Amazon website ‘review’ section of a book called “22 Faces” by Judy Byington.  These quotes are  written by two trolls of The Backlash, named CritThink and Karmakaze (alias’).  These are just in the past couple days. There are literally thousands of similar posts there and elsewhere on the web.    I have read worse, but more personal.  One day, they decided to post several personal pictures from facebook, one a video of my 12 yo granddaughter dancing as well as my personal information.  One troll, Doug Mesner/Lucien Greaves did a satanic ritual right on Amazon supposedly turning me in a Satanist.  They are now contacting people who might know me writing horrible emails to them slandering me under an array of different alias’ – pretending to be their friend.  Well, you can imagine that they have done everything they can to get me to take IGDID.com down.  Why?  It is a support link for survivors of child abuse/exploitation.  Keep in mind the original purpose of The Backlash – to isolate survivors and victims of child abuse/exploitation – to silence them.   

For those who want/need clarification – I am going to answer a few questions The Backlash trolls have brought up –

1. We do not charge members to join or belong to IGDID.com.
 
2. I support and validate survivors and victims of child abuse/exploitation – that is all – no other groups or people. 

3. I don’t know or have any opinion about Kevin Annett, but do know that he is not a member of IGDID –

4. I hope that no one has gotten the idea that I can ‘save’ anyone; that certainly is not my intention.

5. Since, I am also being accused of ‘lining my pockets’ with money collect at IGDID.com, I will say that our financial statements are available.  We claimed negative balance of $3.23 last year, and as with most support groups, we rarely have the money to cover expenses. 

6. I do not consider myself a ‘victim’ at all.  

7. The staff at IGDID.com volunteer their time willingly, they do a wonderful job, and do not ‘expect’ payment. 

8. I do not claim to have a license in mental health – and, I have never offered anyone ‘therapy’.  I hold degrees in psychology – where I did spend years researching and writing journals, and I have a Master’s Degree and license in teaching.  

9. IGDID.com is not a ‘ritual abuse’ survivor group – but, a group for all survivors of child abuse who have dissociative disorders.  Ivory Garden has several groups for survivors of child abuse. 

10. IGDID.com members do not influence each other to believe anything at all.  All members have their own stories – and, they are supported and validated for who they are.  

11. I am not a ‘fraud’. 

12. I am a simple woman, a survivor of child abuse/exploitation.   

13. As a retired special education teacher, I have always been an advocate for children, as well as to adult survivors of child abuse. 

14. IGDID.com is safe and well-moderated by an excellent staff. 



I don't like having to defend myself from out and out slander. I am hurt – yes.  I am not made of stone and wonder that people may read the lies that they write and believe any of it for a second.  I worry that the emails they receive will turn them right into the arms of The Backlash and away from the safety of those who protect and support the victims and survivors of abuse/exploitation.  I am scared – yes – to what lengths these people may go to hurt me.  And, I am worried – yes – that people will become concerned for my well-being.  I am sad – yes – that I can’t simply run a support group without being targeted.  

But, I am also a survivor of abuse/exploitation.  I remember the bullies – the abusers/perpetrators.   I remember their tactics – not just similar to The Backlash trolls, but exactly the same tactics.  I recognize them as being the abusers.  And, I am angry that they think they can use these tactics to isolate the survivors of abuse with lies and intimidation, bully me and others into walking away from IGDID.com where so many survivors of abuse find solace and friendship.  And, I will fight to keep IGDID.com running – I will not be silence. 

That is my statement.

Thank you for reading and for your continued support. 

Anyone who would like to contact me, please do so at felicity4us2@gmail.com.