Treating Trauma and Addiction with the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model

by Jan Winhall

In sharp contrast with the current top-down medicalized method to treating addiction, this book presents the felt sense polyvagal model (FSPM), a paradigm-shifting, bottom-up approach that considers addiction as an adaptive attempt to regulate emotional states and trauma. The felt sense polyvagal model draws from Porges' polyvagal theory, Gendelin's felt sense, and Lewis' learning model of addiction to offer a graphically illustrated and deeply embodied way of conceptualizing and treating addiction through supporting autonomic regulation. This model de-pathologizes addiction as it teaches embodied practices through tapping into the felt sense, the body’s inner wisdom. Chapters first present a theoretical framework and demonstrate the graphic model in both clinician and client versions and then teach the clinician how to use the model in practice by providing detailed treatment strategies. This text’s informed, compassionate approach to understanding and treating trauma and addiction is adaptable to any school of psychotherapy and will appeal to addiction experts, trauma specialists, and clinicians in all mental health fields.

Genres: Addiction, Psychology

236 pages, Paperback

Published June 25, 2021

Reviews

[Brandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is fantastic. The book presents a solid theoretical foundation, while integrating reflections and applications from Jan and encouraging the reader to integrate the knowledge via focusing. The style of writing is engaging and easy to follow, while incorporating a solid evidence base. Moving from theory to application, we are encouraged to increase our understanding through practices. The fluidity of the model, the space to adapt and apply in line with the needs of clients, is a welcoming approach to practice.

Overall, I loved this book. It's practical, informative, and holistic approach is most welcome in my practice as a social worker. I look forward to learning more after reading this.