Description
Overview
Our current model of understanding addiction as a brain disease is failing. Rates are soaring and people are dying in the streets. We desperately need a fresh approach. One that addresses addiction and other trauma responses where they live, in the body. In this workshop we will explore the intersection of trauma and addiction and how to address both with an embodied approach.
The Felt Sense Polyvagal Model™ (FSPM) shifts the current pathologizing paradigm to a strength-based approach. Through the lens of Stephen Porges’ Polyvagal theory, addiction is seen as an adaptive stress response in our autonomic nervous system. Addictive behaviors are the body’s attempt to emotionally regulate by acting as propellers that facilitate neurophysiological shifts in our nervous system. The model integrates Porges Polyvagal theory and Gendlin’s Felt Sense Focusing Oriented Psychotherapy enabling us to appreciate trauma/addictive behaviors as adaptive responses in maladaptive environments. The FSPM provides a generic framework that can support any therapeutic modality.
The webinar series will present an introduction to Jan’s book Treating Trauma and Addiction with the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model. Included is a detailed description of the FSPM theoretical framework, an introduction to The Embodied Assessment and Treatment Tool™ and Carnes Three Circle Practice, a tool for working with addiction. Participants will also learn about Gendlin’s Focusing/Felt Sense practice. A mixture of didactic information, experiential practices, demonstrations, and case examples will guide the clinician in applying the model. This course will be informative for those new to the field of trauma/addiction as well as seasoned practitioners.
Learning objectives
- Describe five concepts in polyvagal theory as they apply to trauma informed embodied psychotherapy.
- Describe the neurophysiological states of the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model™ for treating trauma and addiction.
- Explain trauma and addiction through the lens of Polyvagal theory.
- Name the four avenues into Gendlin’s concept of Felt sense and begin to apply this embodied practice in psychotherapy.
- Explain the Three Circle Practice and how to apply it with clients.
- Describe the Embodied Assessment and Treatment Tool™ and how it differs from the traditional pathologizing model.
- Apply the FSPM™ and Focusing Oriented Strategies in working with different neurophysiological states.
