Did you know ISSTD members have access to more than just the broader Member Forum in ISSTDWorld? Tucked within our online community are smaller, more intimate spaces designed around shared interests and regions: Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Regional Online Communities (ROCs).
Whether your interest is in a specific clinical population, research, a therapeutic modality, or simply the colleagues who share your geographic corner of the world, there’s likely a group ready and available for you to join!
What are SIGs and ROCs?
Special Interest Groups (SIGs) bring together members around a common topic or area of focus within the trauma and dissociation field. SIGs offer:
- Presentations on focused topics
- Discussions of new research from established researchers and emerging voices
- A smaller, more personal space for connection and collaboration
Regional Online Communities (ROCs) connect you with members in your geographic area. ROCs help you:
- Build relationships with colleagues near you
- Discuss local topics, resources, and concerns
- Feel less isolated and more rooted in your professional community
Meet Your Community at the 2026 ISSTD Annual Conference in Portland!
If you’ve been curious about SIGs and ROCs, the upcoming 43rd Annual Conference in Portland, Oregon (March 26–30) is a wonderful opportunity to connect with several of these groups in person. Many Online Communities host 45 minute to one hour long meetings throughout the conference that are open for all to attend! Check the conference schedule to see when your groups of interest are meeting. This is a low-pressure way to get a feel for a group before committing, or to finally put faces to the names you’ve been seeing online. Not yet registered for the conference? There is still time to do so here.
How to Join a SIG or ROC
SIGs and ROCs are free for members to join and are created by members, for members. Ready to get involved? Here’s how:
- Log in to ISSTDWorld and navigate to the Member Resources Tab
- Select Online Communities
- Click on the group you’re interested in and find the secretary’s email address
- Send them a quick email: they’ll be happy to answer your questions and help you get connected!
Not sure which group is right for you? View the full list of member communities now. If you have questions or need help with next steps, reach out to membership@isst-d.org and our staff will be glad to assist.