Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Experiencing, and Interpersonal Neurobiology

At the time I am writing this, I have am in the second year of my professional training with the Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute, as well as my Masters in Clinical Mental Health through Northern Vermont University. I plan to begin practicing as a pre-licensed somatic psychotherapist in the fall! I have been writing a lot about all of this, and have not posted any of it here on the Moon Rise Yoga Site, but here is an excerpt to give you an idea about it, and the full paper attached below (for extra credit)..

"The intent of this paper is to present research and develop ideas that explore groups as neural exercises of regulation, as well as a resource for trauma resolution. Approaching group work in this neurobiologically informed way creates a paradigm shift which affects explicit memory, as well as body based neural integration which affects implicit memory (Badenoch & Cox, 2010). Group can provide an important opportunity to examine unseen implicit relational patterns which form in early stages of development and affect how both clients and therapists relate to themselves and others throughout the lifespan. Group can also provide containment and safety for people suffering from trauma induced dysregulation of the nervous system. Creating resiliency and flexibility through exercising the nervous system can benefit so many populations, including people struggling with anxiety, survivors of abuse, people struggling with addiction, clients suffering through the grieving process, individuals who have had major accidents, perinatal trauma, medical procedures, or chronic illness.

Until relatively recently, modern psychology has been predominated by a reductionist approach to treating mental health. This limited understanding of emotional disturbances and breaks in rational thinking creates a fragmented and compartmentalized sense of the self as mind separate from the body, unlike the more holistic models that have evolved with humans for many generations. For centuries, Indigenous, Shamanic, Ayurvedic, Taoist, and Buddhist, and more recently Gestalt Theory approaches to healing have emphasized reintegration and reconnection of the whole being in relationship to their world, including their relationships with others in their groups. Bringing Somatic Theories into group therapy, which are informed by neurobiology and body-based awareness, is a valuable endeavor for creating a more integrated approach for the healing of not only individuals, but also for families and communities."