System Speak: Complex Trauma and Dissociative Disorders Guests: Matt Robinson & Milissa Kaufman from McLean
Nov 28, 2025
Matt Robinson, a psychologist and program director at McLean Hospital, and Milissa Kaufman, a psychiatrist and director of their Dissociative Disorders and Trauma Research Program, share insights on trauma and dissociation. They discuss their personal journeys into trauma research and the evolution of McLean's programs. The duo highlights the importance of neuroimaging in understanding dissociation, addressing misdiagnosis, and the necessity of relational care to prevent re-traumatization. They emphasize how biological findings offer comfort and foster compassion for individuals affected by dissociative disorders.
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Origins Of Lifelong Commitment
- Milissa Kaufman and Matt Robinson describe long-term, personal motivations that drew them into trauma and dissociation work.
- Understanding clinicians' lived curiosity helps explain why specialized DID programs developed at McLean.
Clinical Care Paired With Neuro Research
- McLean built dedicated clinical and research programs to treat DID and complex PTSD and to study neural correlates of dissociation.
- The research aims to improve access, reduce stigma, and link clinical phenomena to brain mechanisms.
Neuro Evidence To Reduce Misdiagnosis
- Research showing neural correlates of dissociation targets stigma and misdiagnosis by distinguishing DID from PTSD and psychosis.
- Demonstrating biological patterns helps clinicians choose appropriate treatments and avoid harmful medications.