Polyvagal Theory: What is it and How to Implement in Session Work (3HR) Presented by Ashley Esry, LCSW, LCAS

Polyvagal Theory: What is it and How to Implement in Session Work (3HR)

$45.00

Categories: Evidence-Based Practices, General Skill Building, Online Course Tags: evidence-based practices, general skill building, Stripe only

Description

In this webinar, we explore polyvagal theory based on the work of Dr. Stephen Porges and Deb Dana. Participants will learn about the autonomic nervous system, the three nervous system states, and why they are important. Participants will engage in experiential exercises to learn how to identify and move between these states. This will include a discussion of how to introduce and explain the polyvagal theory to clients, which clients are the best candidates, and practical skills to regulate and self-soothe. This webinar will demonstrate how polyvagal theory can help inform and enhance the growth and healing process.

Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:

Define polyvagal theory and its relationship to psychotherapy.
Educate clients about why polyvagal theory is important for treatment.
Identify ideal clients and considerations.
Learn how to implement polyvagal theory interventions with clients and self.

This course qualifies for 3 CE hours of General Skill Building and Evidence-Based training.

Course Instructor: Ashley Esry, LCAS, LCSW

Recording Date: 3/04/2024

Course Format

Course Format: Recorded Live Webinar with downloadable presentation slides and/or handouts, evaluation, and a required quiz. The learner is required to pass with a 70% or higher to achieve the CE certificate of completion. The learner is able to reset the test until a satisfactory score is achieved.

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Meet Your Facilitator

Syllabus

Polyvagal Theory: What Is It and How to Implement in Session Work (3 HR) Syllabus

I. Defining Polyvagal Theory and Its Relationship to Psychotherapy

Define polyvagal theory as the understanding of how the autonomic nervous system responds to stress and safety
Explain how the vagus nerve links the brain to internal organs and supports mind-body connection
Introduce the concept of neuroception as the subconscious evaluation of safety and danger
Outline the three autonomic nervous system states: ventral (safety and connection), sympathetic (fight/flight), and dorsal (freeze/shutdown)
Compare these states to the window of tolerance framework
Define the vagal brake and its role in nervous system flexibility and recovery
Emphasize the importance of coregulation and environmental influence on nervous system regulation

II. Why Polyvagal Theory Is Important for Treatment

Discuss how dysregulation impacts most clients entering therapy
Explain how cognitive safety does not always align with somatic safety
Highlight that therapy depends on connection, which requires ventral state access
Use case studies to illustrate client presentation and polyvagal-informed responses
Emphasize how therapists can support clients in shifting nervous system states for improved processing

III. Identifying Ideal Clients and Considerations

Identify clients with dysregulated nervous systems including those with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorders
Recognize signs of dysregulation such as emotional flooding, shutdown, or reactive behavior
Consider factors like trauma history, sensory sensitivities, chronic pain, or active addiction/withdrawal
Introduce polyvagal theory slowly through body-based awareness and simple language
Incorporate questions that build interoception and awareness of physical sensation

IV. Implementing Polyvagal Theory With Clients and Self

Encourage clinicians to connect to their own ventral state before sessions
Emphasize the goal of flexible nervous system navigation rather than constant calm
Adjust physical positioning in session based on client comfort and safety needs
Regulate the nervous system before diving into therapeutic content
End sessions in ventral to promote closure and stability
Help clients map their nervous system states using real-life cues and experiences
Use guided practice to help clients shift between sympathetic, dorsal, and ventral states
Teach the difference between triggers (cues of danger) and glimmers (cues of safety)
Promote the use of the vagal brake to support resilience and emotional flexibility