Applied Polyvagal Theory for Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth

Post-traumatic growth refers to the personal transformation which sometimes occurs after trauma. With an understanding of Polyvagal Theory, a well-informed mental health clinician can support their clients in developing resilience and experiencing the possibility of post-traumatic growth.
This cutting-edge guide presents practical somatic interventions to support clients in the cultivation of resilience by shifting their neurobiology, creating the neural platform that underlies post-traumatic growth. Using this lens results in deeper levels of change that extend beyond the management of symptoms. Here, trauma expert Ruby Jo Walker delves into three maps of the nervous system: general nervous system functioning, co-regulation capacity, and limiting core beliefs, which are the areas encompassing the clients' presenting issues. Deactivation pathways to downregulate the nervous system are explored, diminishing trauma symptoms and resulting in greater nervous system regulation. Ultimately, readers will learn how to guide their clients' nervous systems to a new way of functioning, allowing their authentic selves to emerge and fostering personal expansion.

Ruby Jo Walker, LCSW, CHT, SEP, of Southwest Trauma Training, is an expert in trauma and an early pioneer of applied Polyvagal Theory in therapy. With over 30 years in the field, she provides polyvagal-informed trainings nationally as well as consultation for practitioners. She resides in Durango, CO.