Module 3: A Compassionate Lens: Polyvagal Applications for Addiction Treatment
Information
Date & Time
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Learning Objectives
Participants will be able to:
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Describe the physiology of the Vagus Nerve system and its relationship to the brain.
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Identify one way breathing patterns and sound influence the nervous system.
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Demonstrate at least 2 HeartMath breathing practices that regulate the nervous system.
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List 2 new contributions from Winhall's Felt-Sense model for treating addiction.
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Describe Global High Intensity Activation and list 2 ways to assess for it.
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Identify one way to assess when a client is in: (1) Ventral autonomic state (2) Sympathetic autonomic state, and (3) Dorsal autonomic state
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Identify 2 ways to effectively help clients access the Ventral/Social Engagement.
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Identify 2 ways clinicians can integrate sound as a healing modality.
Educational Goal
The educational goal of this workshop is to increase knowledge about polyvagal applications for addiction treatment.
Description
In this module, we explore the life of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and its relationship to the brain and body. We also explore the relevance of vagus nerve activity in addressing addictive behaviors. Participants will gain a comprehensive view of Polyvagal Theory as it relates to treating trauma and compulsive habits of self-soothing, as well as practical strategies for implementing polyvagal, felt-sense interventions.
Target Audience
- Counselor
- Marriage & Family Therapist
- Social Worker
- Substance Use Disorder Professionals
Presenters
Greg Liotta, LMSW, has 30+ years of post-masters experience as an addictions counselor, Intergroup Dialogue facilitator (cultural sensitivity), men’s work leader, and somatic experiential retreat leader. His foundation is built on a deep commitment to his personal, emotional, and spiritual development as a platform for offering high-quality service. Greg’s clinical approach is heavily influenced by Gabor Mate’, Dr. Bessel von der Kolk, Ron Kurtz, Janina Fisher, Peter Levine, and other luminaries in the field of healing trauma. He is also certified in HRV technology, HeartMath (the connection between the brain, nervous system, and the human heart), and Polyvagal clinical applications. Greg is certified to administer Dr. Porges’ Safe & Sound Protocol and holds a Certificate in Jan Winhall’s Felt-Sense Polyvagal Approach to Treating Addiction. He is a Certified Experiential Facilitator with a grounding in somatic healing modalities, incorporating sensorimotor psychotherapy, Hakomi approaches, psychodrama, bio-energetics, and IFS. Along with his favorite person in the whole world, Jon Snow (Boxer-mix), he designs and facilitates quality trauma-sensitive experiential retreats for those suffering from addictions and complex trauma.