September 2005 Business

1) Guests at meetings (requests from therapists to attend/observe):
The group reaffirmed its policy of not having therapists come to the meetings to say hello/observe.  (Therapists who are recovering from a dissociative disorder are welcome at the meetings.)  The sharing/support component of the meeting is what is most important to the members.  Even if the guests sat in the back and didn’t speak, it would affect the way you share–you might still say the same things, but you find yourself rearranging; you’re removed, translating the feelings into intellectualizations.  When there are no guests, you can be who you are.  

2) Education:
The group agreed that it was important to educate therapists about DID/MPD.  There are ways of doing this without having therapists observe the meetings.  The Writing Project, which is distributed to therapists as well as members, is one way.  We will discuss the education function further at the October meeting.  

3) Definition of Almost-Better:
The FAQ’s include a definition of “almost-better.”  Some people who might want to come to meetings may stay away because they’re not sure they fit the definition.  It was suggested that we leave the wording of the definition as is, but add something to the effect that if you’re not sure, come and give it a try.  

4) Membership: Reaching out to new members:
Maybe start a committee, or just a list of members who would be available to talk with prospective new members who have questions before they come.  Before we set this in motion, we need to discuss it further–what are the parameters, boundaries, etc.  New-member welcome packet:  We will develop a packet to mail out and/or have on the give-away table at meetings.  It will include: something about the group; FAQ’s; past issues of the Writing Project; meeting guidelines; other things to be decided.