One of my core memories from early graduate school is presenting a research poster at a conference. Someone who had just received a Lifetime Achievement Award came over and asked me a question about my research. I had absolutely no idea how to answer it, so I told him that. His response was essentially, “Aw shucks. I keep waiting for someone to have an idea about that.”
Here was someone who knew vastly more than I did, but who was genuinely hopeful and curious about whether I might know something he didn’t. For a moment, knowledge wasn’t moving in the direction I had come to expect and I was low key shook. I had no idea what the answer was, but what stayed with me was that he seemed to think I might.
I think of that moment during SEP Month because it captures something about how I hope we approach students and emerging professionals at ISSTD. Not simply as people we are preparing to carry the field forward, but as colleagues who are already asking questions, noticing things, and bringing ideas that the rest of us have not yet uncovered. What happens when those of us with more professional or organizational power can approach the limits of what we know with wonder, genuinely curious about where or from whom something new might emerge?
September is Student and Emerging Professional (SEP) Month at ISSTD, a chance to celebrate the many ways SEP members already strengthen our Society. Through their questions, research, energy, and leadership, they help shape ISSTD and the field while building their own professional paths. This month, we hope to give back through free learning opportunities, connection, and invitations to participate even more in the life of the Society. Please watch the community forum and ISSTD communications for weekly announcements, registration details, and discount codes.
Four free webinars
Each week, SEP members will have access to a featured webinar at no cost through the Center for Advanced Studies (CFAS). This year’s featured offerings are:
- Living Legends Webinar: Professional Practice Guidelines for Working with Adults with Complex Trauma Histories, with Christine A. Courtois and Paul A. Frewen
- Mapping Dissociative Symptom Profiles Across Neurodiverse and Mental Health Diagnoses, and Interpretation Challenges, with Mary-Anne Kate
- Living Legends: The Therapeutic Relationship: Connection, Care and Cautions, with Lynette Danylchuk and Joan Turkus
- Organized Abuse: An Overview of Research and Treatment Principles, with Michael Salter, Kate McMaugh, and Warwick Middleton
The weekly code is needed only to register during that week; once registered, the webinar will remain available in your CFAS activities to complete when it works for you. The code will be sent to SEP members so keep an eye on your emails!
Upcoming Webinar
We will also offer complimentary registration for the upcoming webinar with Ann Shin. Space is limited, so SEP members who are interested should watch for the registration announcement and code.
Ways to participate
SEP Month is also a reminder that ISSTD is not simply a place to receive training. SEP members can help shape the Society through volunteer opportunities, committee work, Special Interest Groups, presenting research and workshops, and leadership roles. Throughout September, we will share opportunities designed specifically for students and emerging professionals.
If you are an SEP member, I hope you will use the month to explore an educational offering, introduce yourself in the community, or consider one small way to participate. If you are a more established member, I hope you will join me in making room for the questions, perspectives, and expertise that our SEP colleagues already bring.
Thank you to all of our Student and Emerging Professional members for your contributions to ISSTD. We are glad you are here.
With all my gratitude,
Abigail