Welcome to Carlsbad Family Therapy Therapy

What is Polyvagal Therapy?
Polyvagal Therapy is a body-based, trauma-informed approach to healing, grounded in the Polyvagal Theory developed by Dr. Stephen Porges. This theory explains how our autonomic nervous system (ANS) constantly scans for safety or danger, shaping how we feel, think, and connect with others.

Rather than focusing only on thoughts, Polyvagal Therapy works with the body’s nervous system responses to support regulation, safety, and resilience.

The Three Autonomic States

1. Ventral Vagal (Safety & Connection): A calm, open state where we feel safe, grounded, and able to connect with others.
2. Sympathetic (Fight or Flight): A mobilized state preparing us to handle danger through action, often felt as anxiety, hypervigilance, or restlessness.
3. Dorsal Vagal (Shutdown/Collapse): A state of withdrawal or numbness, often linked to depression, dissociation, or feeling disconnected.

Polyvagal Therapy helps clients recognize these states, understand their triggers, and build pathways back to safety and connection.

How Polyvagal Therapy Helps

• Teaches clients how to track their nervous system responses
• Builds tools for regulation (breathing, grounding, mindfulness, safe connection)
• Promotes resilience after trauma or stress
• Supports improved relationships by fostering a sense of safety and trust
• Encourages clients to gently return to balance when overwhelmed

Benefits

• Increased sense of calm and safety
• Better emotional regulation
• Reduced anxiety, panic, and overwhelm
• Stronger ability to stay present in daily life and relationships
• A deeper understanding of how body and mind are connected

Reference
Porges, S. W. (2011). The polyvagal theory: Neurophysiological foundations of emotions, attachment, communication, and self-regulation. New York: W.W. Norton.