Quick Description: The Polyvagal theory provides a dramatic refinement in our ability to understand human behavior. It also indicates whether our interventions are "on" or "off" the map: ultimately predicting our effectiveness as therapists. We'll animate this remarkable theory and apply it directly to the work you do every day.

Full Description: Stephen Porges’ “Polyvagal theory” clarifies the inner workings of the mammalian autonomic nervous system–the regulatory system at the heart of human behavior. The theory’s resulting “nervous system map” points to physical, emotional, and even cognitive correlates that reflect underlying neurophysiological state. When a clinician can see where a client is on this map they have unprecedented support in answering the question “what do I do next?” Knowing the terrain makes all the difference on arriving where you want to go.

The problem for humanist focused therapists is that the theory is typically taught using the same language found in the field of psycho-physiology where it was developed. This can confuse and obscure the practical implications of the theory. Anthony “Twig” Wheeler has spent the necessary time struggling with both the language and significance of the Polyvagal theory. Over the years he’s developed an animated translation of its finer points, making the theory’s information accessible to clinicians near and far. If the Polyvagal theory has confounded you in the past it doesn’t have to anymore. After these two hours with Twig you’ll be jumping up and down with excitement in the recognition of how unexpectedly easy the theory is to comprehend and put to use in your practice. And if you’re already a “Porgesian” you’ll get to bask in the glow of what you already know: with this information, therapy will never be the same.