Finding Solid Ground: The first research-backed program for trauma-related dissociation.
Finding Solid Ground is an evidence-based intervention for people experiencing complex trauma symptoms and dissociative disorders.
The Finding Solid Ground workbook provides information and exercises for trauma survivors.
The companion book for therapists offers guidance on assessing dissociation and how to use the program with clients.
Combined, these books provide an evidence-informed, pragmatic, and compassionate approach to the stabilization and treatment of complex trauma and dissociation that breaks recovery into practical and manageable steps that can be immediately implemented.
“Thank you for giving survivors a sense of our humanity back.”
— Anonymous Participant
WHAT WE DO
Research
Our TOP DD Studies formed the basis for Finding Solid Ground by investigating treatments for dissociative disorders, which are often overlooked in research and clinical training.
These studies have demonstrated that targeted interventions can significantly reduce symptoms and improve patient functioning.
Training
Join us to learn how to help clients with complex trauma and dissociation!
The Finding Solid Ground authors regularly host trainings for clinicians. If you can’t make it to a session, selected recordings are available for on-demand viewing.
Outreach
Connect with our community and stay informed about our latest updates!
Explore our social media and follow us across platforms where we announce new research initiatives and spread awareness about Finding Solid Ground program to those who may need it.
Research Foundations
Finding Solid Ground was built directly on findings from the landmark Treatment of Patients with Dissociative Disorders (TOP DD) studies—the largest prospective treatment-outcome research conducted in the field to date. Addressing a critical gap in clinical research and provider training, the TOP DD team evaluated real-world patient progress, gathered expert clinical consensus, and tested an innovative online educational program.
This research established empirical evidence that specialized, trauma- and dissociation-focused care significantly reduces symptoms, hospitalizations, and self-harm, providing the foundation for our evidence-based intervention.
Thanks to Our Research Team
We are grateful for the collaboration and contributions of the following researchers to Finding Solid Ground and the Treatment of Patients with Dissociative Disorders studies.
Authors: Bethany Brand, Ph.D., Hygge Schielke, Ph.D., Ruth Lanius, Ph.D., M.D.
Scientific consultants: Frank Putnam, M.D., Karen Putnam, Ph.D., Paul Frewen, Ph.D., Richard Loewenstein, M.D., Amie Myrick L.C.P.C., Ellen Jepsen, M.D., Ph.D.
Lab coordinators: Shae Nester, Nick Pierorazio