CLINICAL APPLICATIONS OF THE POLYVAGAL THEORY
* SEPTEMBER 4TH - 5TH 2010 *
Due to unavoidable circumstances we regret that this course has been postponed. Please contact our administrator to register your interest and you will be informed when a new date can be organised. We apologise for any inconvenience or disappointment.
WITH PROF. STEPHEN PORGES Ph.D.
The Polyvagal Theory explores different questions, paradigms and conclusions regarding the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, and this workshop will explore the clinical applications of these findings. In particular, the Polyvagal Theory emphasises the importance of evolutionary changes in the neural structures regulating the autonomic nervous system and provides insights into the adaptive function and regulation of two distinct vagal systems. The theory links the evolution of the autonomic nervous system to affective experience, emotional expression, facial gestures, vocal communication and contingent social behaviour, providing a plausible explanation of several features that are compromised during stress and observed in numerous disorders. As humans we have evolved as highly social and mutually dependent beings, but when overwhelmed by stress and threat our autonomic nervous systems adaptively dictate more primordial strategies. Therapeutic interventions that engage in the regulation of these physiological states and target the capacity to sense safety are highly effective in treating disorders that result from chronic reliance on older stress responses. Positive clinical outcomes result from the expansion of the patient's biobehavioral capacity by recruiting our most evolved adaptive neural circuit - the 'social engagement system'. The workshop has two objectives: to provide an explicit statement of the Polyvagal Theory and to illustrate how this offers deeper insights into the clinical assessment and treatment of numerous conditions. The weekend will be very relevant for all mind-body therapists and students, including those who have previously studied with Prof. Porges and newcomers.
The workshop will include a presentation by Dr. Sue Carter on the role of oxytocin in mediating social bonds and regulating stress responses. Dr. Carter is Professor of Psychiatry and Co-Director of the Brain-Body Center at the University of Illinois at Chicago. In addition, a practical session of craniosacral treatment applications will be lead by Katherine Ukleja, a leading international teacher of biodynamic craniosacral therapy trainings.
Course Tutor:
Stephen Porges is a professor of Psychiatry at the University of Illinois, director of the Brain-Body Center and author of numerous papers on physiology and psychology. His discovery of "Polyvagal Theory" and "Social Nervous System" gives new insights into the functioning of the autonomic nervous system.
Venue:
Skylight Centre 2,
49 Corsica Street,
London N5 1JT
Nearest station: Highbury and Isington (Victoria line and mainline).
Times:
From 10am - 6pm each day.
Cost:
£185 if the fee is received before July 15th 2010, or £205 if received after this date. All fees are non-refundable. Cheques are payable to ‘CTET’, or contact our administrator for bank details to make a transfer.
For bookings and further details, please contact:
Craniosacral Therapy Educational Trust,
78 York Street,
London W1H 1DP,
England
Tel/Fax: 07000-785778
Email: info@cranio.co.uk
