Our Members in their Own Words: Why ISTSS

Question: What inspired you to become a member of ISTSS?

Jana Javakhishvili, PhD: "I joined the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS) because it is an outstanding professional community dedicated to serving those affected by trauma in the best possible way. ISTSS fosters international collaboration, facilitates networking, and promotes the exchange of best practices and evidence-based interventions. Being part of this society provides a valuable opportunity to connect with like-minded colleagues, engage in high-quality professional events, and contribute to the advancement of the traumatic stress field. It is both a meaningful and enriching experience." 

Question: How has your involvement with ISTSS impacted your professional or personal growth? 

Jana Javakhishvili, PhD: "My involvement with ISTSS has been invaluable for both my professional and personal growth. It has connected me with a global network of experts, provided access to cutting-edge research, and offered opportunities for meaningful collaboration. Engaging in ISTSS events and initiatives has deepened my knowledge, broadened my perspective, and strengthened my commitment to advancing trauma-informed care. Beyond professional enrichment, being part of this community has been an inspiring and rewarding experience." 

Question: What message or story would you like to share with others about the importance of traumatic stress studies and the work of ISTSS? 

Jana Javakhishvili, PhD: "Being part of the ISTSS family is both a privilege and a responsibility - an opportunity to contribute, learn, and support one another in making a meaningful impact. Through its commitment to trauma-informed and trauma-focused interventions, ISTSS not only advances the traumatic stress field but also ensures that those affected by trauma receive the best possible care." 

Question: What inspired you to become a member of ISTSS? 

Sacha McBain, PhD: "I was inspired to become a member of ISTSS thanks to the encouragement of my first clinical supervisor. When I expressed interest in specializing in traumatic stress, she recommended I get involved with ISTSS. With additional support from my research mentor, I submitted a poster presentation, which was accepted, and attended my first ISTSS meeting in 2014 in Miami. That experience was incredibly impactful, and I’ve been involved ever since. Now, ten years later, as a mentor and supervisor myself, I fully appreciate how valuable their early encouragement was in shaping my career and connecting me to a professional community that continues to inspire me." 

Question: How has your involvement with ISTSS impacted your professional or personal growth? 

Sacha McBain, PhD: "My involvement with ISTSS has been instrumental in shaping both my professional and personal growth. It opened up a world of opportunities for collaboration, including connections with mentors who played a key role in guiding my graduate and post-graduate training and supported me as I navigated my first faculty position. Through ISTSS, I’ve had the chance to collaborate with multidisciplinary experts in traumatic stress from around the world—smart, kind people I would never have met otherwise. Many of these collaborations have led to presentations, publications, and trainings, and have grown into lasting friendships." 

Question: What message or story would you like to share with others about the importance of traumatic stress studies and the work of ISTSS? 

Sacha McBain, PhD: "The work we do in the field of traumatic stress can be incredibly challenging. Being part of ISTSS has connected me with a community of colleagues who share a common mission and core values, while also offering diverse perspectives. This network has been a vital source of professional support and growth. Over the years, ISTSS has helped me stay informed about innovation in the field and has played a key role in refining both my research and clinical practice. As Membership Committee Chair, I’ve seen firsthand how meaningful it can be to find your place in the ISTSS community. Whether you're early in your career or well established, there’s real value in being connected to others who are just as committed to advancing the field and supporting one another." 

Question: What inspired you to become a member of ISTSS?  

Soraya Seedat, MD: "I had been working as a clinical researcher for about 15 years and been a member of several other professional societies, both internationally and in my country (South Africa). A colleague invited me to join ISTSS. I was inspired by the energy, passion, and commitment to advancing research and practice in the trauma field. I soon realized that ISTSS was a sizeable society (in terms of membership), yet there was a genuine ethos of a 'family' serving a 'community'. My first term as an ISTSS Board member was exciting and scary, in equal measure! The level of activity was almost frenetic there and so much good work being done. Board members were sharply focused on making a global difference to people impacted by trauma. Being a non-US member of ISTSS, this inspired me to expand my research to have more of a global footprint."  

Question: How has your involvement with ISTSS impacted your professional or personal growth?  

Soraya Seedat, MD: "I have initiated several new collaborative research projects with Board members and other colleagues within ISTSS since joining the Society. ISTSS is highly structured and organised, underpinned by a community of talented and dedicated individuals who are a force to be reckoned with. I have learnt a few soft skills about organisational efficiency and diplomacy. Through ISTSS, I have also become more involved in ESTSS (European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies) and the Global Collaboration on Traumatic Stress."  

Question: What message or story would you like to share with others about the importance of traumatic stress studies and the work of ISTSS?  

Soraya Seedat, MD: "At a time where war, conflict, disaster, violence, and continuous adversity impact millions worldwide, the study of traumatic stress has never been more crucial. Trauma knows no borders, affecting individuals, families, and entire communities. ISTSS is dedicated to advancing research, education, and clinical practice to improve prevention, intervention, and recovery for those affected. To be effective, we need professionals and non-professionals, across disciplinary boundaries and around the world, to join the Society so that we can amplify our efforts!"