Understanding Trauma as a Wound through the Lens of the Polyvagal Theory: Part 2

Credits: 1.5 Continuing Education Hours (.15 CEUs) Clock Hours available upon request

Audience: SLPs, PTs, PTAs, OTs, COTAs, nurses, and medical staff

This session continues the exploration of trauma as a wound and its impact on both the brain and mind. It reviews key concepts related to trauma, including the distinction between big “T” and little “t” trauma, and introduces core principles of Polyvagal Theory to explain how cues of safety and danger influence behavior. The presentation places a deeper focus on how different nervous system states present through observable physical and behavioral patterns, and how these responses may appear in workplace, school and clinical settings.
You will gain a better understanding of how trauma affects our reactions and see that these responses are not just choices—they are rooted in the body’s survival system. This understanding encourages compassion and helps guide strategies to support safety and regulation.

Objectives
Upon completion of this course participants will be able to:

• Explain trauma as a “wound” that affects both the brain and the mind.
• Describe trauma using Big T (major, overwhelming events) and Little T (ongoing or smaller stressful experiences).
• Explain the basics of Polyvagal Theory, including how the nervous system has three main states: feeling safe and connected, feeling stressed and ready to act, and feeling shut down.
• Explain how the brain automatically scans for safety or danger and how this affects behavior in people who have experienced trauma.
• Identify common physical signs of different nervous system states and how they show up in workplaces, schools, or clinical settings.

Registration information
After you register you will receive a link to access the recordings. You may access the recording anytime, ending 180 days from first viewing. If you require more time to watch the recording, please email Normajean Friend - [email protected]