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 bodies 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. This 6 hour webinar will present an introduction to my book Treating Trauma and Addiction with the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model. I will give a detailed description of the integrative theoretical framework of the model as I developed it over four decades in working with trauma survivors. Application of the model will be demonstrated in an introduction to The Embodied Assessment and Treatment Tool.™ (EATT)™

The EATT™ provides a somatic assessment of client’s capacity to regulate their autonomic nervous system, and integrate embodied experiences. As you develop the experiential assessment over time it becomes an organized treatment plan and can be stored online as a clinical record. The EATT™ package is downloadable on my website. Detailed examples of how to use the Tool will be demonstrated. Carnes Three Circle Practice, a tool for working with addiction, will be explained so clinicians can apply the model right away. Participants will also learn about Gendlin’s Focusing/Felt Sense method of psychotherapy and how to guide clients into connecting with their bodies. 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.