Polyvagal Institute

Module 01 — Foundations of Polyvagal Theory (Deb Dana  ~50 min)

Deb Dana introduces the first two organizing principles of Polyvagal Theory — neuroception and the autonomic hierarchy — including the vagal brake and the ladder as her clinical translation of ventral, sympathetic, and dorsal states.

Module 02 — Mapping the Nervous System (Deb Dana  ~57 min)

Deb Dana transitions into applying these concepts: building a personal profile map with clients, the "notice and name" skill, the blended states of play, freeze, and stillness, ventral vagal anchors, and the third organizing principle: co-regulation, taught through the social engagement system.

Module 03 — Case Study: Watching the Work (Dr. Stephen Porges & Deb Dana  ~65 min)

Stephen Porges and Deb Dana review a real recorded demonstration session, segment by segment, with a workshop volunteer named struggling with anxiety.

Module 04 — Two Pioneers in Dialogue (Dr. Stephen Porges & Dr. Peter Levine, moderated by Dr. Chris Walling  ~58 min)

Dr. Porges and Dr. Levine trace their 50-year history and connect Polyvagal Theory directly to Somatic Experiencing's core tools — titration, pendulation, and co-regulation — before closing on where they hope trauma therapy goes next.