International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies

Overview of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies - for expert information on trauma study and treatment. Links to PTSD and Complex PTSD guidelines and information for the public. ==What is the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies?== The International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS) is a professional organization focused on sharing information about the effects of trauma. It states it is the "premier society for the exchange of professional knowledge and expertise" in this field. Founded in 1985, the ISTSS seeks to reduce traumatic stressor and their consequences by researching and sharing information about traumatic stress and its treatment. Members include psychiatrics, social workers, psychologists, counselors, nurses, administrators, journalists, researchers and others with an interest in traumatic stress.

The ISTSS has many members who are also members of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation, and past presidents of the ISTSS include many pioneers in the treatment of dissociative disorders. Professionals holding positions of responsibility in both organizations during 2014 include Miranda Olff, PhD, Julian Ford, PhD, Ruth Lanius, PhD and Eric Vermetten, PhD. Past presidents of the ISTSS who are also known for their work on dissociative disorders include Eve Carlson (2011-2012, co-author of the Dissociative Experiences Scale), Onno van der Hart, PhD (2002-2003, pioneer in the modernized model of Structural dissociation) and Complex PTSD pioneer Bessel van der Kolk, MD (1990-1991).

Journal of Traumatic Stress
The ISTSS publishes the Journal of Traumatic Stress (JTS), which is a peer-reviewed journal publishing new research from professionals. The journal is in the top third of all clinical psychology journals.

Public education is also a key part of the ISTSS's remit, and it is the only society to have published a thorough, science-based assessment of trauma memory. This combines clinical and research information.

Treatment Resources
The organization provides information on affiliate and trauma-focused professional organizations, which can be useful in helping to find a therapist, and a useful book store.

Links

 * ISTSS Information for the Public
 * Public Education Pamphlets and Factsheets
 * Treatment Materials for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Children
 * ISTSS PTSD Treatment Guidelines
 * ISTSS Complex PTSD Treatment Guidelines
 * Trauma Assessment Resources