Polyvagal Theory in the Therapy Room with Dr. Stephen Porges

How trauma therapists can apply polyvagal theory to recognize physiological cues, understand survival responses, and use co-regulation to support safety, connection, and re-embodiment. If psychotherapy is about reconnecting to a genuine expression of self, how do we support connection and embodiment in clients who've experienced complex trauma? One noted clinician believes that polyvagal theory offers vital tools for this journey, provided therapists can hold space for vulnerability during the process of co-regulation. On this episode of Transforming Trauma, host Emily Ruth welcomes back Stephen Porges, Ph.D., the renowned behavioral neuroscientist, professor, and author who, in 1994, originated the polyvagal theory framework: a systems-level, pathway-specific model of autonomic regulation. This conversation explores: Compassion in the context of the nervous system How physiological state drives behavior How to reinterpret trauma responses as supportive, evolutionary nervous system reactions, not maladaptive strategies The concept of neuroception (the body's automatic threat-detection process) How co-regulation, emotional availability, and prosodic voice help clients feel safe Transforming Trauma is grateful to Stephen Porges for once again sharing his life's work with our community and supporting trauma patients on their journey back to somatic understanding of self. To read the full show notes and discover more resources, visit https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/transformingtrauma SPACE: SPACE is an Inner Development Program of Support and Self-Discovery for Therapists on the Personal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal Levels offered by the Complex Trauma Training Center. This experiential learning program offers an immersive group experience designed to cultivate space for self-care, community support, and deepening vitality in our professional role as therapists. Learn more about how to join. *** The Complex Trauma Training Center: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com View upcoming trainings: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/ Join us for this a transformative 2-day Intro to NARM® online workshop: https://bit.ly/narmintro *** The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal. The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care. We want to connect with you! Facebook @complextraumatrainingcenter Instagram @cttc_training LinkedIn YouTube