As a minor in Michigan seeking help from a therapist and mentioning the possibility of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) or Other Specified Dissociative Disorder (OSDD), the therapist's response will depend on their professional training and expertise in working with dissociative disorders and minors.
Here are some possible scenarios:
Assessment and Evaluation: The therapist may conduct a thorough assessment and evaluation to better understand your symptoms and experiences. They might ask you about your thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and any history of trauma or dissociative symptoms. This process aims to determine the most appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Referral to Specialized Treatment: If the therapist is not experienced in working with dissociative disorders, they may refer you to a mental health professional or clinic that specializes in treating dissociation and trauma-related disorders. Proper diagnosis and treatment of dissociative disorders often require expertise in this area.
Collaborative Approach: In cases where the therapist has experience with dissociative disorders, they may collaborate with you and, if applicable, your parents or guardians to create a treatment plan. This plan might involve individual therapy, family therapy, and potentially referrals to other specialists, depending on your needs.
Confidentiality and Informed Consent: It's important to be aware that therapists are bound by ethical and legal guidelines regarding confidentiality. However, they may need to breach confidentiality in certain circumstances, such as if there are concerns about your safety or the safety of others. This will generally be explained to you during the initial sessions.
Involvement of Parents/Guardians: Depending on your age and circumstances, your parents or legal guardians might be involved in the treatment process. The therapist may engage with them to provide support and educate them about dissociative disorders and your treatment plan.
Treatment Approach: The treatment approach for DID and OSDD typically involves trauma-informed therapy, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), along with specialized interventions for dissociation.
It's essential to be open and honest with your therapist about your experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Therapists are there to provide support and help you navigate through your challenges. If you're uncertain about sharing certain information, you can discuss your concerns with the therapist and work together to create a treatment plan that feels safe and comfortable for you.
Remember that seeking professional help is a positive step towards addressing any difficulties you may be facing, and having a supportive therapist can make a significant difference in your healing journey.