The TOP DD Network study
The TOP DD Network study is now complete. We are now preparing to launch a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) of the newest version of the educational program.
The TOP DD Network study enabled DD patients around the world to participate in a web-based educational program informed by the results of our previous studies. Specifically developed to help patients get and feel safer, the study provided education about DD and healing-focused skills for managing intense emotions, PTSD and dissociative symptoms, and urges to engage in risky, unhealthy, or unsafe behaviors.
Study participants were given access to the secure website that hosts the study’s educational program, including a series of brief (5-15 minute) educational videos for patients and therapists, and weekly questions and written and practice exercises to be completed by patients. (Note that we did not collect patient’s written exercises, but encouraged patients to share these with their therapists.)
Participation was associated with improved emotion regulation, reduced PTSD symptoms and dissociation, and higher adaptive capacities – especially among those with the most pronounced dissociation at intake. Improvements in NSSI among the most self-injurious patients were particularly striking.
(For detailed results, please see https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.22370.)