Deb Dana: The Polyvagal Theory in psychotherapy

This conversation is about using the Polyvagal Theory in clinical practice. Deb Dana talks about how a focus on experientially understanding the role of the autonomic nervous system helps to creatively involve clients in their healing process. Note: See Deb Dana’s talk on the nervous system as a resource for clients.


Deb Dana, LCSW, specializes in treating complex traumatic stress and lectures internationally on the ways Polyvagal Theory informs clinical interactions with trauma survivors. She is the Coordinator of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium in the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University and the developer of the Rhythm of Regulation clinical training series. She is trained in Internal Family Systems and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and completed the Certificate Program in Traumatic Stress Studies at the Trauma Center. Deb is the author of The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy (Norton, 2018), co-editor with Stephen Porges, of Clinical Applications of the Polyvagal Theory (Norton, 2018), and is currently writing Polyvagal Exercises for Therapists and Clients (forthcoming from Norton). To learn more about Deb’s workshops and writing, visit her website.


Published July  2019.