This online live zoom course will take place over three modules on Thursday and Friday for 4 hours each day on November 9,10, December 14,15, 2023, and January 18,19, 2024. The training includes didactic presentation, embodied practices in breakout rooms, demos, and opportunities to present cases. In between modules students will be asked to complete 6 Focusing partnership sessions with Process Recordings, for one hour duration on their own time.

Module One:

This module will provide a detailed overview of the history of the three versions of the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model with an in-depth description of the five theoretical frameworks that form the foundation of the model. Two Skills will be addressed: Recognising and rewiring the nervous system and Finding a felt sense. Three tools will be introduced: The Felt Sense Polyvagal Graphic Model-6F’s, The Four Circle Harm Reduction Practice, The Embodied Toolbag.

Students will engage in Eugene Gendlin’s Focusing Practice, including the history and research that underlies the somatic practice. A detailed description of the six steps of Focusing will be explained, with a demonstration. Students will be assigned a Focusing Partner and will practice in breakout rooms with the presenter and an assistant trainer accompanying them. There will be clear instructions on how to engage in a focusing partnership. Students will embody their own journey so they can facilitate deeply embodied states for their clients.

Module Two:

The second module will examine more deeply the journey of healing from trauma and addiction. An in-depth examination of the roots of trauma and addiction will be covered, including systems of oppression, and early attachment wounds. Experiential exercises in early attachment wounds will be practiced. The second version of the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model will be highlighted including Interpersonal Neurobiology, and Lewis learning model of addiction. An introduction to the Four Circle Harm Reduction Practice will be included. Focusing Oriented Strategies that facilitate healing will be demonstrated with presenter and assistant in a live demo. Each day will include breakout rooms for practicing Focusing and Embodied Listening with the presenter and assistant trainer circulating between rooms.

Module Three:

This module will explore in depth the five lessons in Polyvagal theory as outlined in my book. The theory will be learned in a deeply somatic way so that students have an embodied awareness of the concepts.The Embodied Assessment and Treatment Tool (EATT) will be explored. Students will engage in practices that are part of the EATT so that they have a somatic experience of the tools that they will offer their clients. Students will be provided with several demonstrations of how to apply the EATT, and opportunities to present cases. As each case is presented familiarity with the FSPM is enhanced. Break out rooms to practice Focusing Oriented Psychotherapy strategies will be provided.