A Sidran Foundation brochure states that it was established in December 1986 and that it is a "national non-profit organization devoted to advocacy, education and research in support of people with severe psychiatric disabilities. The current focus is development of programs, projects, and publications for survivors of catastrophic trauma and those who live and work with them."

The brochure notes that it is not a membership organization and that it was named for its founding donor, Mrs. Kate Sidran, a Texas philanthropist who cares deeply about mental health and the welfare of children.

According to brochures Esther Giller, MA is president of the Sidran Foundation. According to publications of the ISSD, Ms. Giller became a member of their Executive Council in 1996.