Polyvagal Theory in Therapy
In 1994, Stephen Porges introduced the Polyvagal Theory, based on an evolutionary and neuropsychological understanding of the vagus nerve’s role in emotion regulation, social connection, and fear response. This theory has brought a new understanding around trauma and recovery, providing for the first time a physiological explanation for trauma survivors’ experiences.
Since then, polyvagal theory has been brought into the realm of psychotherapy and is used to describe three nervous system states: ventral vagal, dorsal vagal, and sympathetic - as well as their activation in a particular order. Ventral vagal helps us feel safe, show up, communicate, and connect with others; this state feels like “home”, the place of safety where we want to be most of the time. Sympathetic is that energy of fight or flight that helps us mobilize to survive in dangerous environments. If we cannot fight or flight, dorsal vagal causes us to shut down, collapse, or go numb to protect us.
I encourage my clients to understand their nervous system states so that they can navigate the challenges of everyday life. The nervous system informs the brain, so it is essential to first comprehend the processes of the nervous system before understanding the brain. I believe if an individual can successfully regulate their own nervous system, they will be able to be safely connect with other people. For trauma survivors, it is the greatest gift they can give themselves.
