On Demand Seminar: Questioning Polyvagal Theory in Therapy – Critique, Debate, and Clinical Implications

Description

Seminar Overview

This on-demand seminar examines the emerging scientific critique of polyvagal theory and its implications for therapeutic practice.

Led by Heather Mason, the session explores the physiological arguments presented in the 2025 critique led by Paul Grossman alongside Stephen Porges’ published response. It provides a structured overview of the current debate, with particular attention to how these developments may inform clinical understanding and application.

Designed for practitioners already familiar with the foundational principles of polyvagal theory, the seminar focuses on the specific scientific and clinical questions now under discussion within trauma-informed and mind-body fields.

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Learning Focus

This seminar explores the current scientific debate surrounding polyvagal theory and its relevance to therapeutic work. Areas of focus include:

• The core physiological claims within polyvagal theory currently under debate
• The principal arguments presented in the critique led by Paul Grossman
• Stephen Porges’ published response and its scientific context
• How these developments may influence clinical reasoning and intervention
• The implications for trauma-informed, somatic, and mind-body approaches
• Reflecting critically on contemporary therapeutic frameworks and evidence

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Who This Seminar Is For

This seminar is suitable for:

• Yoga therapists
• Psychotherapists and counsellors
• Somatic practitioners
• Mental health professionals
• Yoga teachers working therapeutically
• Practitioners already familiar with polyvagal theory seeking a deeper understanding of the current debate

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Format

• On-demand seminar recording
• Approx. 90 minutes
• Lifetime access to the recording included with your purchase
• This recording is taken from a live seminar. While light edits may have been made, some references to participants, questions, or shared materials may remain

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