File:Kathy-Steele.jpg

Summary

Her particular interest is working with dissociationDissociation is a compartmentalization of experience, where elements of a trauma are not integrated into a unified sense of the self. {{Rp|4-810, 127}}The lay persons idea of [[dissociation]], that which exists in the normal mind, is not what is referred to in this document. {{Rp|233-234}} and attachmentThe communication of emotion between an infant and their primary caregiver(s) is essential to shaping the developing mind. "Emotion serves as a central organizing process within the brain. In this way, an individual's abilities to organize emotions - a product in part, of early attachment relationships directly shapes the ability of the mind to integrate experience and to adapt to future stressors." {{Rp|9}} Interruption in the attachment pattern of young children with their caretaker(s) has been shown to be a primary precursor to Dissociative Disorder pathology. (see etiology) {{Rp|85}} {{Rp|97}}, and in resolving impasses in therapy. She has been in private practice of adult psychotherapy since 1985, and with Metropolitan Psychotherapy Associates in Atlanta, Georgia since 1988. She is a co-founder and Clinical Director of Metropolitan Counseling Services, a non profit psychotherapy and training center. Kathy received her undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina, and completed her graduate work at Emory University. She enjoys collaborating with colleagues around the world on clinical, educational, and research projects. Kathy has (co)authored numerous book chapters, journal articles, and two award winning books with her colleagues. She is a Past President and Fellow of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and DissociationDissociation is a compartmentalization of experience, where elements of a trauma are not integrated into a unified sense of the self. {{Rp|4-810, 127}}The lay persons idea of [[dissociation]], that which exists in the normal mind, is not what is referred to in this document. {{Rp|233-234}} (ISSTD), and has also served two terms on the Board of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS). Kathy served on the International Task Force that developed treatment guidelines for Dissociative Disorders, and is currently on a Joint Task Force that is developing treatment guidelines for Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. She has received a number of awards for her work, including the 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award from ISSTD, an Emory University Distinguished Alumni Award in 2006, and the Cornelia B. Wilbur Award for Clinical Contributions in 2011.

Licensing