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Honoring Sensory Intelligence through Polyvagal Theory in Neurodivergent-Affirming Eating Disorder Care

Lindsay Birchfield MS, RD, CEDS-C
Monica Starck, MS RDN, CD
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Information

Date & Time

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

  • Identify the 3 core states and at least 2 blended states of Polyvagal Theory.

  • Explain how at least 2 eating disorder behaviors can downregulate sensory-related dysregulation.

  • Identify at least 2 clinical interventions that apply polyvagal theory principles that support neurodivergent affirming eating disorder treatment.

Educational Goal

The educational goal of this workshp is to promote a strengths-based understanding of Neurodivergence by challenging deficit-focused societal narratives and highlight the sensory intelligence that exists within Neurodivergent communities · Increase awareness of eating disorder prevalence within Neurodivergent communities · Increase awareness of Polyvagal Theory and how to integrate principles within eating disorder treatment · Equip mental health professionals with practical frameworks and strategies to incorporate polyvagal-informed sensory care to eating disorder treatment

Description

This presentation will review the intersection of polyvagal theory, neurodivergence, and eating disorders through a strengths-based lens. Attendees will be invited to consider how eating disorder behaviors can emerge as responses to sensory overwhelm and attempt to regulate nervous system dysregulation. Using Polyvagal Theory as a framework and case studies, the talk will illuminate treatment considerations toward sensory support that honor autonomy and help patients befriend their nervous system. This presentation aims to foster more compassionate, empowering approaches to eating disorder care within neurodivergent communities.

Target Audience

  • Addiction Professional
  • Counselor
  • Dietitian
  • Marriage & Family Therapist
  • Social Worker

Presenters

Lindsay Birchfield MS, RD, CEDS-C
Lindsay Birchfield (they/them), or LB, as many of their colleagues refer to them, is Center for Discovery’s (CFD) National Director for Virtual Programming & Innovation. LB has worked in the eating disorder field since 2012 specializing in gender affirming healthcare, somatic interventions, and trauma informed nutrition therapy. LB firmly believes that healing happens inside of relationships, thus, they've invested efforts in Virtual CFD and Path to Peace to be accessible healing environments that strive to foster authentic connections and community.
Monica Starck, MS RDN, CD
Monica Starck, MS RDN, CD (she/her) is a Senior Dietitian with the Path to Peace team, where she enjoys exploring the intersection between neurodivergence and eating disorders. She also leads the Neurodivergent+ Affinity group to support patients in increasing nourishment accessibility.

Financially Sponsored By

  • Discovery Behavioral Health
  • Center for Discovery