Deb Dana's
Foundations of
Polyvagal Informed Practice
THE NEXT COHORT BEGINS JANUARY 2024
SPACE IS LIMITED TO 36 PARTICIPANTS
Foundations of Polyvagal Informed Practice
An Immersive Clinical Training Series Presented By
Deb Dana's Rhythm of Regulation
This comprehensive and highly interactive flagship training series, developed by Deb Dana, LCSW, is unlike any other professional training focused on the application of Polyvagal Theory.
Gain invaluable insight into Polyvagal Theory and learn Deb's innovative methodology, tools and practices, which have established her as a pioneering figure in rethinking the way we engage with our clients.
Step into the world of Polyvagal Theory as Deb and her senior training team guide and support you through the theory, background and, most importantly, the unique framework Deb has developed to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.
Registration is now closed for the September 2023 cohort. To join the interest list and be notified when details and early registration are available for the next cohort, scheduled to begin in January 2024, please contact us at rorassist@gmail.com.
The Autonomic Nervous System is
at the Heart of Daily Living...
...powerfully shaping experiences of safety and influencing the capacity for connection.
Through the organizing principles of hierarchy, neuroception and co-regulation, Polyvagal Theory has offered us a new appreciation of how experience shapes the nervous system and the pathways that lead to healing.
With this updated map of the autonomic circuits of connection, mobilization and collapse, we now have practical ways to effectively help clients identify and interrupt patterns of protection, and strategies to shape their systems toward the regulated state of safety and connection, necessary for successful treatment.
This 6-month hybrid training series empowers therapists, clinicians and helping professionals from all backgrounds to deepen their understanding of Polyvagal Theory, gain insight into their own nervous system, and integrate the revolutionary work of Stephen Porges and Deb Dana into their own professional work, from the ground up.
Participants will learn the language of the nervous system as they map their own unique autonomic pathways and discover how to become a regulated and regulating resource for their clients and communities.
Participants will also discover, step-by-step, how to bring the power of Polyvagal Theory into their work - with practices designed to reliably help clients re-shape their systems and re-write the stories carried in their autonomic pathways.
Deb Dana's Flagship Training Series
is Now Available
Since the publication of her seminal book, The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy: Engaging the Rhythm of Regulation (Norton, 2018), Deb Dana's work has continued to transform how Polyvagal Theory can be applied in professional, therapeutic, clinical, and educational settings.
This 6-month long training series offers a comprehensive and practical guide to bringing a polyvagal lens to your client work and deepening your professional practice.
This training is an invaluable guide to incorporating Deb's groundbreaking methods, tools, and practices in the most effective way for your clients and for your own development as a practitioner and helping professional.
Open to all therapists, clinicians, and helping professionals, regardless of background or therapeutic modality, Deb's Foundations of Polyvagal Informed Practice takes your learning and application of Polyvagal Theory to the next level.
Join Deb Dana, LCSW and her team of Polyvagal-Informed senior trainers and consultants in this interactive learning experience that includes over 49 hours of live training, live Q&As, recorded webinars, readings, handouts, and official exercises and worksheets created by Deb to use with your clients.
Gain a deeper understanding of Polyvagal Theory as well as your own nervous system, and learn to integrate Deb's renowned methodology and practices into your professional work with clients and communities.
What You Will Learn
As you move through this training series, you will:
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Learn the three organizing principles of Polyvagal Theory - nuroception, hierarchy, and co-regulation - and how they impact your daily life and clinical practice.
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Befriend you nervous system as you get to know your autonomic patterns of connection and protection.
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Develop ways to use your autonomic state to create an environment of safety for your clients.
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Create autonomic maps and learn how to use them to guide clinical choices.
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Learn techniques to effectively guide clients from a state of survival to safety, and enhance their capacity for regulation.
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Practice strategies to help clients identify and interrupt their familiar patterns of protection and to find, and savor, experiences of safety.
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Develop skill in engaging the co-regulating pathways of the social engagement system to create safety in the therapeutic relationship.
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Learn how to integrate a polyvagal approach into your existing professional practice.
Training Overview and Structure
Deb created Foundations of Polyvagal Informed Practice to support and empower therapists, practitioners and helping professionals of all backgrounds to become Polyvagal-Informed in their work and to feel confident in applying Polyvagal Theory within their practice.
This immersive series aims to deepen participants' understanding of Polyvagal Theory and equip them with the insights, tools and strategies they need to enhance the way they work with their clients - regardless of modality or setting.
Throughout this comprehensive and interactive journey, participants will delve deeply into their own autonomic patterns and cultivate polyvagal-informed skills through personal exploration, clinical demonstrations and practical application.
Participants are taken beyond the basics of conceptual learning as this series focuses on experiential learning using recorded training videos, small group experiences and engaging live-online sessions - all designed to help participants successfully integrate a polyvagal approach into their work with clients and communities.
This hybrid series includes over 49 hours of combined live and on-demand learning material and is divided into five comprehensive modules.
Module 1: Getting to Know the Nervous System
Module 2: Autonomic Protection and Connection
Module 3: Resourcing Regulation
Module 4: Navigating the Hierarchy
Module 5: Integration and Ending
Each monthly training module includes on-demand self-study content, including recorded teachings from Deb, detailed handouts, articles and readings, as well as Deb's exclusive practice exercises and worksheets for your personal and professional use.
Then, meet with Deb's Polyvagal Informed senior trainers for the monthly live 3-hour training sessions as they guide and support you in deepening your understanding of the theory and building your skillset in the application of polyvagal-guided insights and interventions.
To further bring the theory to life, there are two 90-minute experiential sessions with the senior trainers included in the training; one at the beginning of the series and one near the end. Participants will rotate between the trainers so they can learn from each of the trainer's expertise and experience.
Additionally, Deb will offer two 90-minute live Q&A sessions to answer your specific questions as you move through the modules and apply the framework with your clients.
Deepen your Learning with Small Group Consultations, Experientials and Polyvagal Partnerships
To anchor your learning and help you stay connected with your fellow Foundations participants, small groups and partnerships are mindfully incorporated into the training experience.
During the live Orientation and Introduction session, the large group of 36 is divided into three groups of 12. Each group is assigned to one of Deb's Polyvagal Informed consultants as their point person for the duration of the training. These groups will meet with their consultant for one 90-minute experiential practice session.
Each group of 12 will also be divided into groups of four to create small consultation groups. Each consultation group will have four 1-hour consultations throughout the training series, and will rotate between consultants so participants can learn from each consultant's range of experience and expertise.
Each participant will also be paired with someone from their small consultation group to create a Polyvagal Partnership. Polyvagal Partnerships offer the opportunity to connect with someone throughout the training to discuss material, share personal and professional experiences through the polyvagal lens, practice new skills, and experiment with all things polyvagal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this training for?
The Foundations of Polyvagal Informed Practice training series is for therapists, clinicians and helping professionals of all backgrounds and fields who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of Polyvagal Theory and how to apply it to their work with clients.
How is this training different from other programs on Polyvagal Theory?
The Foundations of Polyvagal Informed Practice takes you beyond the basics. This comprehensive training series was developed by Deb and designed specifically for therapists, clinicians and helping professionals to bring her successful methodology and clinical insights to their own practice, clients and communities. No matter what approach or modality you already use in your work, Deb's framework will integrate beautifully and add to your skills as a therapist or practitioner.
There is no other training program in the clinical application of Polyvagal Theory that practically and so thoroughly teaches these concepts, tools, methods and practices - that have been tried and tested in professional application - and which are a current topic in the world of trauma treatment across the globe.
Deb's Foundations training is also unique in that it is an immersive hybrid training model. The series combines comprehensive self-study material - over 18 hours of recorded webinars that participants have lifetime access to - as well as an array of live training and practice opportunities and two live Q&A periods with Deb where participants can ask questions specific to their learning journey and work.
And because of its online format, participants can join from anywhere in the world, as long as the time zones are compatible to attend the live sessions.
What if I can't attend the live sessions?
By registering for this immersive training, you are making a commitment to watch all the training videos and read the assigned material prior to each live session. You also agree to attend all live training and consultation sessions. However, if you're unable to attend a live session or need to view it after the live date, you'll have access to the recording for 30 days after the live session.
Will I have access to the recordings, handouts, and all of the resources to keep?
You'll get lifetime access to Deb's comprehensive training materials, including her recorded sessions, slides, handouts, and official exercises to add to your clinical toolbox and use with your clients. With this lifetime access you can return to the self-study materials at any time after the training ends to refresh your learning and continue building your skillset.
Will I receive certification following this training?
Following the completion of Foundations of Polyvagal Informed Practice, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion and may refer to themselves as Polyvagal Informed in their work with clients. Participants are encouraged to use this term and reference the completion of the Foundations training on their websites, CVs, and other relevant professional materials to convey their level of knowledge and skill with regards to the application of Polyvagal Theory.
Please note: There is no formal certification process in existence for becoming Polyvagal Informed or program available through any organization to become a certified polyvagal clinician.
As a founding member of The Polyvagal Institute, Deb adheres to the principle, supported by the Institute, that helping people deepen their learning and use of Polyvagal Theory in clinical work is an essential element in the healing process. However, there is no path to certification.
Are continuing education credits available for this training?
At this time, there are no continuing education credits available.
What are the cancellation and refund policies for this training?
A full refund is available, minus a $100.00 cancellation service fee, for cancellations made before the training start date. For cancellations made after the training begins, a credit is available. This credit may be applied to another Rhythm of Regulation online course or training, with possible exceptions being those with prerequisites.
Is there a payment plan?
Yes. The registration fee can be paid in full at the time of enrollment or in 4 monthly installments of $500.00.
Are there scholarships available?
Yes. In acknowledging that financial and economic situations, as well as access to learning opportunities, vary across our global community, we endeavor to make the Foundations training accessible and inclusive to as many individuals as possible. Therefore, we offer a limited number of partial scholarships to those facing financial hardship or who would otherwise be deterred or unable to access the Foundations training series. Please contact us for more information on how to apply.
September 2023 Training Schedule
Introduction and Orientation to Foundations of Polyvagal Informed Practice Training Series
Friday, September 8, 2023 I 1:00pm - 3:00pm EST - Live Session with Foundations of Polyvagal Informed Practice senior trainers Eric Friedland-Kays, MA and Mia Tootill, LCSW, as well as consultants Brooke Farrell, PhD, LCMHC, Blair Lord, LCSW, and Meredith Brown, MA, BSC, RP-Q, CSP, RYT.
In this session, we'll begin the paradigm shift to looking through the lens of the nervous system and to embody the practices. You'll learn how the structure of the training supports the dual focus of getting to know your own nervous system and bringing a polyvagal approach to clinical work. You'll meet the training and consulting team and all the members of the cohort as well as spend time with your polyvagal partner, small consultation group, and your group of 12.
Module 1 - Getting to Know the Nervous System
Friday, September 22, 2023 I 1:00pm - 4:00pm EST - Module 1 live online training with the Foundations of Polyvagal senior trainers Eric Friedland-Kays, MA and Mia Tootill, LCSW.
In this live online session, the framework of the hierarchy will be used to look at the relationship between states and explore the essential need for ventral vagal oversight in the system. Module 1 materials will be the entry point into the process of befriending your own nervous system.
Small Group Consultation
Friday, September 29, 2023 - Varying one hour time slots will be available | Interactive live online training with the Foundations of Polyvagal senior consultants.
In your small group consultation, you will review the Personal Profile Map and discuss material from the first module with time for Q&A.
Trainer Experiential
Friday, October 13, 2023 I 1:00pm - 2:30pm EST | Interactive live online training with the Foundations of Polyvagal senior trainers Eric Friedland-Kays, MA and Mia Tootill, LCSW.
In this 90-minute session, you will meet with one of the trainers in a group of 18 for Q&A and an experiential practice to deepen your understanding of the material from Module 1.
Live Q&A Call with Deb Dana
Friday, October 20, 2023 I 1:00pm - 2:30pm EST | Interactive Q&A video call with Deb Dana.
In this first live Q&A with Deb Dana, you will have the opportunity to talk with Deb about what you are learning, how it is changing how you understand yourself and your clients and ask questions about application to your clinical work.
Module 2 - Autonomic Protection and Connection
Friday, October 27, 2023 I 1:00pm - 4:00pm EST | Module 2 interactive live online training with the Foundations of Polyvagal senior trainers Eric Friedland-Kays, MA and Mia Tootill, LCSW.
In this live online session, autonomic patterns of protection and connection will be explored through getting to know the three pathways of neuroception and working with the elements of the social engagement system.
Small Group Consultation
Friday, November 3, 2023 - Varying one hour time slots will be available | Interactive live online training with the Foundations of Polyvagal senior consultants.
In your small group consultation, you will review the Triggers and Glimmers Map and discuss material from the second module with time for Q&A.
Consultant Experiential
Friday, November 17, 2023 I 1:00pm - 2:30pm EST | Interactive live online training with the Foundations of Polyvagal senior consultants.
In this 90-minute experiential session, you will meet with your group of 12 and primary consultant to engage in an experiential practice that deepens your capacity to notice your own autonomic state and anchor in regulation.
Module 3 - Resourcing Regulation
Friday, December 8, 2023 I 1:00pm - 4:00pm EST | Module 3 live interactive online training with the Foundations of Polyvagal senior trainers Eric Friedland-Kays, MA and Mia Tootill, LCSW.
In this live online session, you'll discuss the moments of rupture that inevitably happen in clinical work and the process of autonomic repair. You'll explore a variety of ways to return to, and anchor in, regulation.
Small Group Consultation
Friday, December 15, 2023 - Varying one hour time slots will be available | Interactive live online training with the Foundations of Polyvagal senior consultants.
In your small group consultation, you will review the Regulating Resources Map and discuss material from the third module with time for Q&A.
Module 4 - Navigating the Hierarchy
Friday, January 19, 2024 I 1:00pm - 4:00pm EST | Module 4 interactive live online training with the Foundations of Polyvagal senior trainers Eric Friedland-Kays, MA and Mia Tootill, LCSW.
In this live online session, the focus will be on the relationship between states and the ways the system is shaped by moving down and up the hierarchy. A variety of ways to travel between states and increase autonomic flexibility will be explored.
Small Group Consultation
Friday, February 2, 2024 - Varying one hour time slots will be available | Interactive live online training with the Foundations of Polyvagal senior consultants.
In your small group consultation, you'll review ways to shape the system and discuss material from the fourth module with time for Q&A.
Live Q&A Call with Deb Dana
Friday, February 9, 2024 I 1:00pm - 2:30pm EST | Interactive Q&A video call with Deb Dana.
In this second live Q&A with Deb Dana, you will have the opportunity to talk with Deb about what you are learning, how it is changing how you understand yourself and your clients and ask questions about application to your clinical work.
Trainer Experiential
Friday, February 16, 2024 I 1:00pm - 2:30pm EST | Interactive live online training with the Foundations of Polyvagal senior trainers Eric Friedland-Kays, MA and Mia Tootill, LCSW.
In this 90-minute session, you will meet with one of the Foundations Series senior trainers in a group of 18 to create your Polyvagal Launch Plan.
Module 5 - Integration and Ending
Friday, March 8, 2024 I 1:00pm - 4:00pm EST | Module 5 interactive live online training with the Foundations of Polyvagal senior trainers Eric Friedland-Kays, MA and Mia Tootill, LCSW.
In this final live online session, you will explore what it means to be polyvagal informed and discuss the essential elements of polyvagal informed therapy.
We look forward to you joining us!
Have questions about the Foundations training series?
We're happy to help. Contact us at: rorassist@gmail.com