Introduction to polyvagal theory and clinical applications in trauma treatment

Applying polyvagal theory to understand autonomic nervous system responses and support regulation in trauma treatment

This two-day trauma training introduces polyvagal theory as a framework for understanding the autonomic nervous system’s role in trauma responses and its clinical application in trauma treatment.

Led by Ian Robertson, participants will explore the three organizing principles of polyvagal theory and examine how adaptive responses to safety, danger, and life-threat shape trauma-related symptoms. The training also explores practical ways to apply polyvagal-informed approaches in the early stages of trauma treatment.

Across the two days, participants will learn to identify autonomic nervous system triggers, map nervous system responses, and develop resourcing plans to support regulation. Practical exercises will also be introduced to strengthen ventral vagal functioning and support greater physiological regulation in clients.

Learning objectives:

• Three organizing principles of polyvagal theory
• Understanding the adaptive response patterns to safety, danger and life-threat
• Applying the three autonomic nervous states of polyvagal theory within the stage one treatment of trauma in practice
• Integrating the polyvagal mapping process into practice
• Applying polyvagal strategies to shift autonomic states
• Mapping out the nervous system
• Exploring triggers to the autonomic nervous system (ANS) triggers
• Developing a resourcing planning for the autonomic nervous system (ANS)
• Exercises that strengthen the ventral vagal nerve

Reserve your spot now for this two-day module to build practical skills for applying polyvagal-informed approaches in trauma treatment.

Please note: This webinar is module 3 of the Certificate in trauma counselling for mental health professionals: Level 2 advanced clinical training, however; participants can also register for it as a stand-alone training to enhance their knowledge and clinical skills in trauma counselling.

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