At Wholesome Psychology, we recognize that living with dissociative disorders can feel deeply isolating and confusing. We are committed to offering a safe, respectful space for individuals in Edmonton and St. Albert who are navigating life with dissociative experiences. Our compassionate psychologists and therapists take a holistic and trauma-informed approach, ensuring that you receive care tailored to your unique story, strengths, and needs. For more about our philosophy, visit our unique approach page.

Understanding Dissociative Disorders

Dissociative disorders are a group of mental health conditions that disrupt a person’s sense of identity, memory, awareness, and perception. These experiences can range from feeling detached from your thoughts or body, to memory gaps about everyday events, or even changes in sense of self. Dissociation is a natural coping mechanism, often linked to overwhelming stress or past trauma, but when it becomes persistent or disruptive, it may signal a dissociative disorder.

Common types of dissociative disorders include:

• Dissociative Amnesia: Trouble remembering important personal information or traumatic events.
• Dissociative Fugue: Sudden, unexpected journeys away from home with amnesia surrounding one’s identity.
• Derealization/Depersonalization Disorder: Feeling detached from reality or from one’s own body.
• Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID): Presence of two or more distinct personality states.

At Wholesome Psychology, our clinicians are experienced in identifying and working with the subtle complexities of dissociative disorders. If you or a loved one notice persistent detachment, unexplained memory lapses, or changes in identity, you are not alone—healing is possible. Learn more about trauma therapy and how it can help with dissociation.

Symptoms of Dissociative Disorders

The signs of dissociative disorders differ for each individual, but commonly include:

• Gaps in memory for significant life events
• Feeling disconnected from thoughts, emotions, or body
• Unfamiliar surroundings or people seeming strange
• Sudden shifts in mood or sense of self
• Difficulty handling everyday stress or responsibilities
• Depression, anxiety, or feeling emotionally numb

Untreated, dissociative disorders can deeply affect relationships, work, and daily well-being. Early support can make a profound difference. If you’re seeking help, you might benefit from our stress management services or reading our FAQ.

Trauma and the Roots of Dissociation

Dissociation is often the mind’s way of coping with traumatic events or overwhelming stress. Childhood adversity, abuse, or neglect are commonly linked to dissociative patterns later in life. Recognizing the role of trauma is crucial, and our approach centers on gentle, collaborative exploration—never pushing you to revisit memories before you’re ready.

At Wholesome Psychology, we know that trauma and dissociation impact every aspect of a person’s life. We help you rebuild trust in yourself, your memories, and your relationships, with sensitivity and respect for your healing journey. To learn more about our commitment, see our comprehensive services.

Our Approach to Dissociative Disorders Treatment

We take a holistic and individualized approach, drawing from evidence-based therapies proven helpful for dissociative conditions. Our clinicians in Edmonton and St. Albert build treatment plans that are collaborative and paced according to your comfort. Treatment options may include:

• Trauma-informed talk therapy
• Grounding and mindfulness techniques
• Internal Family Systems (IFS) and parts work
• EMDR therapy for trauma processing
• Psychoeducation about dissociation and trauma
• Strategies for daily grounding and stress management
• Identity integration and self-compassion building

Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is at the heart of our practice because we understand that safety is fundamental for healing dissociation. Our team’s gentle and validating style supports you in re-establishing a sense of wholeness and personal agency. Meet our Edmonton and St. Albert therapists to find your fit.

Why Choose Wholesome Psychology?

Wholesome Psychology is rooted in a belief that each person’s story matters. Our therapists are here to offer expert guidance backed by current research and trauma-sensitive practices. As Edmonton and St. Albert’s trusted counseling clinic, we value transparency, continued learning, and genuine connection. Our values—compassion, safety, inclusivity, and empowerment—shape every session.

If you are unsure about starting therapy, our team of psychologists and therapists are happy to answer your questions and help you find the right fit. We also offer flexible appointments and a welcoming, non-judgmental atmosphere for everyone in our community. Discover our getting started guide for new clients.

Related Disorders and Comprehensive Support

People with dissociative disorders may experience overlapping mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, or personality disorders. Our clinic’s breadth of expertise means we can support you across these areas, ensuring truly integrated care. You may also find our information on trauma healing helpful.

If you’d like to read more on specific dissociative disorders, visit our page on Dissociative Identity Disorder or review our comprehensive dissociative disorders overview.

FAQ: Dissociative Disorders in Edmonton & St. Albert

What causes dissociative disorders?

Most often, these disorders develop as a coping mechanism for overwhelming trauma or chronic stress in childhood or adulthood. Genetics, neurobiology, and environment also play a role. For more on trauma and mental health, see our trauma therapy page.

How are dissociative disorders diagnosed?

Skilled mental health specialists use interviews, psychological assessments, and collaboration with other care providers to understand symptoms and their impact. Diagnosis is careful and respectful, never rushed or stigmatizing. Our therapists are experienced in these assessments.

Is recovery possible?

Yes. With specialized trauma-informed counseling, most people see meaningful improvement in symptoms and quality of life. Healing is a gradual process that focuses on reconnection and integration.

How can I support a loved one?

Learn about dissociative disorders, offer empathy, and encourage your loved one to seek professional help. Avoid judgment or pressure—healing is a personal journey. If you want tips on support, visit our supporting someone’s mental health resource.

Connect With Us for Compassionate Support

If you are seeking support for dissociation or related concerns in Edmonton or St. Albert, we invite you to reach out. You deserve care that honors your story, fosters hope, and encourages growth.

To book an appointment or to learn more about how we can help, please visit Our Therapists page or contact us. Healing and wholeness are possible, and Wholesome Psychology is here for you—every step of the way, just as you are.