According to Stephen Porges, PhD, some of our traditional psychotherapeutic approaches to working with shame may inadvertently amplify it. So in the video below, Stephen outlines a Polyvagal approach that can help us avoid reinforcing shame, and instead, resource clients to regulate themselves as they process that shame. Have a look. Click here for […]
What’s Happening in the Nervous System of Patients Who “Please and Appease” (or Fawn) in Response to Trauma? With Stephen Porges, PhD
You’ve probably heard of fight, flight, and even the freeze response to trauma. But there are some newer defense responses – ones that experts have only recently begun to name and understand – that are critical to our clinical work. One of those defense responses is “please and appease.” You may have also heard expert […]
Understanding Trauma Triggers, with Stephen Porges, PhD
In the aftermath of trauma, some clients struggle to feel a sense of connection to their bodies. And when clients can’t properly interpret the sensations or messages that the body is sending to the brain, it can be very difficult for them to get a handle on their triggers. So in the video below, Stephen […]
Making a Nervous System “Menu” – a Tool for Your Clients
During the pandemic, your clients may be looking for answers to help them manage the uncertainty and stress of our “new normal.” And there’s no shortage of advice out there. The thing is, while some ideas are truly helpful, others may only heighten the discomfort. According to Deb Dana, LCSW, the key is to help […]
A Tool to Help Clients Calm the Nervous System
Uncertainty is hard to live with. And the stress and fear that often accompany it can be demanding . . . . . . especially when it comes to the nervous system. That’s why we reached out to Deb Dana, LCSW to get her perspective on how clients can calm the nervous system when they’re […]