FAQs for Polyvagal

What is Polyvagal Therapy?

Polyvagal Therapy is a body-based approach that helps regulate the nervous system, promoting a sense of safety and connection. It is based on Dr. Stephen Porges' Polyvagal Theory, which explains how our autonomic nervous system responds to stress, danger, and safety.

How does Polyvagal Therapy work?

This therapy focuses on understanding and working with the three states of the autonomic nervous system:

Ventral Vagal (Safe & Connected): Feeling calm, social, and engaged.
Sympathetic (Fight or Flight): Feeling stressed, anxious, or reactive.
Dorsal Vagal (Shut Down & Disconnected): Feeling numb, depressed, or withdrawn.

Polyvagal Therapy helps you recognize your nervous system responses and use practical exercises to shift toward safety and connection.

Who can benefit from Polyvagal Therapy?

This approach is particularly helpful for individuals experiencing:

Relational Trauma & Attachment Wounds – Healing from past disconnection, abandonment, or insecure attachment patterns.
Childhood Trauma & Past Abuse – Addressing the long-term impact of early neglect, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse.
Trauma & PTSD – Helping the nervous system recover from chronic stress.
Anxiety & Panic Disorders – Reducing hyperarousal and supporting regulation.
Depression – Moving from shutdown states to connection and engagement.
Emotional Regulation & Coping Strategies – Developing healthier ways to manage stress and triggers.

How does Polyvagal Therapy support emotional regulation and resilience?

When the nervous system is dysregulated, it can lead to feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, or numbness, sometimes resulting in unhealthy coping mechanisms like addiction. Polyvagal Therapy helps:

Recognize patterns of dysregulation and self-soothing.
Develop ways to create safety and stability in the body and mind.
Strengthen co-regulation and emotional connection.
Reduce reactivity and build resilience in difficult situations.

What can I expect in a Polyvagal Therapy session?

Each 50 minute session is tailored to your needs and may include:

Understanding your nervous system and identifying patterns.
Learning practical tools for self-regulation and emotional balance.
Gentle exercises, breathwork, and movement techniques to promote calm.

How is Polyvagal Therapy different from traditional talk therapy?

Unlike traditional therapy that focuses on thoughts and emotions first, Polyvagal Therapy works from the body up—helping regulate the nervous system before processing difficult experiences. This is especially useful for those who find verbal processing challenging due to trauma or chronic stress.

Is Polyvagal Therapy backed by scientific research?

Yes, Polyvagal Therapy is grounded in neuroscience and is widely used in trauma therapy, nervous system regulation, and attachment-based interventions. Dr. Stephen Porges' work has influenced fields such as somatic psychology and neurobiology, and research supports its effectiveness in treating emotional dysregulation and trauma responses.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on your needs. Some people benefit from short-term support (6–12 sessions), while others integrate this approach into ongoing therapy.

Can I combine Polyvagal Therapy with other approaches?

Absolutely. I use a Polyvagal-informed approach where appropriate, and these sessions are specifically focused on Polyvagal Therapy. This approach integrates well with Person-Centred Therapy (PCT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Trauma-Informed Therapy to support long-term healing.

How much does Polyvagal Therapy cost?

Each 50 minute session costs £90 and focuses on identifying patterns of dysregulation, practicing regulation techniques, and building long-term resilience.

For ongoing support, I offer the Relational Trauma & Nervous System Regulation Packages:

6 x 50 minute sessions – £510 (saving £30)
10 x 50 minute sessions – £800 (saving £100)

How do I book a session?

I offer a free 15 minute Discovery Call if you're considering Polyvagal Therapy but unsure if it’s the right step. There’s no pressure to book, take time to think it over. If you decide to move forward, you can contact me or book a session online.

[Book a Free Discovery Call] (Insert Link Here) | [Book a Session] (Insert Link Here)

Payment & Booking

Payment is required when booking sessions.
All sessions are available at my room in Waterlooville and online via Zoom.

Still have questions?

I know starting therapy can feel like a big step, and you might have more questions. Feel free to reach out, I’m happy to chat. [Contact Me] (Insert Link Here)