Kate McLaughlin's Blog

Hi all! I noticed on various platforms, including this one that there are some concerns over research I did on Dissociative Identity Disorder for Pieces of Me. Someone posted that they didn't think I worked with clinicians, and someone else wondered an own-voices reader or two. I thought I'd address those concerns.

I had a friend who was diagnosed with DID many years ago, and that was what got me interested in learning more. In researching the book I watched a lot of videos by people who have been diagnosed with DID, and I read many books by systems and mental health-providers, as well as DID specialists. The book was read by a psychologist who is well-trained in DID treatment. It was also read by a DID system before ever making it to print.

DID is a fascinating and complex coping mechanism that is as different from system to system as each individual alter. It would be impossible to present in a way that everyone would agree upon, but I hope the above information will resolve any concerns about whether or not I did my research.

Thanks so much to those of you who have read the book and took the time to review it. Whether you enjoyed PoM or not, I appreciate that you picked it up.

I am currently revising Pieces of Me, my 2021 release from Wednesday Books. It's been such an interesting journey on this one because the main character has Dissociative Identity Disorder. The research has been SO incredibly interesting, and I've found myself lost in it so many times. Plus, it makes me have to juggle several protagonists, as each alter is their own person separate from the host. I can't wait for this book to be out in the world as this topic is so rarely portrayed accurately in media. My beta reader, who has DID says I've done a good job, so that's such a relief!

If you have an interest in DID, leave me a comment. I'd love to discuss.