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Learn DBT Skills In A Group
Weekly sessions are available. Grouport offers therapist-led dialectical behavior therapy skills groups online. The first 12 weeks covers fundamental DBT skills.
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The human nervous system, a complex network regulating bodily functions and responses to external stimuli, is the subject of extensive study. One theory that has gained considerable attention is the Polyvagal Theory. Conceived by Dr. Stephen Porges, this theory offers insights into how the nervous system influences our physical and emotional responses to stress and social interactions.
The Polyvagal Theory revolves around the vagus nerve, one of the primary nerves of the autonomic nervous system, responsible for controlling unconscious body functions. It suggests that the vagus nerve has three different branches, each of which can dominate and dictate our response to stress or danger. These three branches form what Porges refers to as the 'polyvagal' system.
The Polyvagal Theory posits that our nervous system has three distinct states: The Ventral Vagal state (social engagement system), the Sympathetic state (fight or flight response), and the Dorsal Vagal state (freeze or shutdown response). Each state corresponds to a different type of response to stress or danger, and each state is linked to different physical and emotional experiences.
According to the Polyvagal Theory, how we respond to stress is dictated by which part of the polyvagal system is active. For example, if the sympathetic state dominates, we might experience increased heart rate and respiration, preparing us to either fight the threat or flee from it. On the other hand, when the dorsal vagal state takes over, we might experience a 'freeze' or shutdown response, making us feel disconnected or numb.
The Polyvagal Theory suggests that the ventral vagal state is key to social engagement. When this system is active, we are more likely to feel safe and capable of connecting with others. Our facial expressions become more animated, our tone of voice becomes more varied, and we can listen and speak more effectively.
Polyvagal Theory offers a physiological explanation for emotional experiences. It suggests that our emotional state is directly linked to the state of our nervous system. For example, when we're in a sympathetic state, we may feel anxious or fearful, while the dorsal vagal state might cause feelings of depression or disconnection.
Understanding the Polyvagal Theory can inform therapeutic approaches. For instance, by helping individuals recognize their body's physical responses to stress, therapists can teach strategies to shift the nervous system state. This can help manage symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and depression, improving overall mental well-being.
Th Polyvagal Theory provides a unique lens through which to understand our physical and emotional responses to stress and social situations. With further research and application, this theory could hold the potential to transform mental health care and therapy.
Grouport Therapy provides online group therapy for anger management, anxiety, borderline personality, chronic illness, depression, dialectical behavior therapy, grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues and trauma and PTSD. Our licensed therapist leads weekly group sessions conducted remotely in the comfort of members' homes. According to participant feedback, 70% experienced significant improvements within 8 weeks.
You don't have to face these challenges alone. Join our community and work together towards a brighter future. Sign up for one of our courses today and begin your journey towards meaningful, lasting change and renewed hope.
Due to licensing restrictions, our online group therapy sessions are for Florida, New York, and New Jersey residents. If you are not a resident of either state, consider our dialectical behavior therapy skills group. It is a therapist-instructor-led online group that will teach you strategic new skills to replace behaviors and emotions causing friction in your daily life and relationships. It is excellent for interpersonal connections and building social skills concerning relationship issues.
We infuse cognitive behavioral & EMDR techniques in our group therapy sessions for PTSD & Trauma. Get effective and affordable treatment for trauma.
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