In order for therapy to work, clients need to trust and feel safe with their therapist. Unfortunately, many of our clients have nervous systems that have been programmed – via traumatic events – to be in a constant physiological state of fear and defense, always scanning for threat. This interferes with the therapeutic relationship and the outcome of therapy itself unless we are able to address it first. Otherwise, helpers may give off subtle non-verbal cues that lead to a feeling of threat in the nervous system of their clients, without even knowing it. Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, provides helpers with tools and insights they can use to help clients experience safety at a neurophysiological level. It explains how social behavior turns off defenses and promotes opportunities to feel safe. It provides an innovative model to understand bodily responses to trauma and stress and the importance of the client’s physiological state in mediating the effectiveness of clinical treatments. It also gives helping professionals a guide to becoming a regulated and co-regulating resource for clients by leveraging neurobiology and psychophysiological cues of safety. This, in turn, provides the conditions for therapy to be effective so you can truly help your clients overcome the impact of trauma, anxiety, addiction, depression and other mental health conditions. In this 3-hour workshop, you will be introduced to the principles and practical applications of Polyvagal Theory by the most qualified experts on the topic: Dr. Stephen Porges and Deb Dana. You will learn: 1) The fundamental principles of Polyvagal Theory 2) How the autonomic nervous system responds to cues of safety and risk 3) Simple, concrete ways to incorporate Polyvagal Theory into your existing practice including: - How to create a map of the autonomic hierarchy - How to work with neuroceptive cues of safety and danger - How to engage the pathways of the Social Engagement System to create an environment of safety and foster co-regulation Optional one hour live broader student community discussion: • Monday, May 6, 2024 at 2 pm Eastern Time with Stephen Porges, PhD Students will have access to the course for 180 days from the date of registration.