Searching...
Top 5 Books on Polyvagal Theory in Therapy
Explore these 5 essential books that delve into the polyvagal theory and its transformative impact on therapy and emotional healing.
Book Summaries
Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
Bessel van der Kolk, a leading expert in trauma, explores how the polyvagal theory informs our understanding of trauma's effects on the body and mind, making this book essential for therapists and trauma survivors alike.
3 Key Takeaways:
- Trauma disrupts the body's natural equilibrium, leaving an imprint on body, mind, and brain
- PTSD involves reliving the past in the present, affecting the entire human organism
- Early relationships shape brain development and future stress responses
Recognize Your Patterns, Heal from Your Past, and Create Your Self
Nicole LePera, a holistic psychologist, combines the polyvagal theory with practical self-healing techniques, making this book a must-read for anyone looking to understand their emotional patterns and improve their mental health.
3 Key Takeaways:
- Embrace the Journey of Self-Healing and Holistic Psychology
- Understand the Mind-Body Connection and Nervous System Regulation
- Recognize and Heal from Childhood Trauma
The Aftermath of Violence - From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror
Judith Herman's groundbreaking work on trauma recovery emphasizes the importance of understanding the polyvagal theory in healing from various forms of trauma, making it essential for both survivors and practitioners.
3 Key Takeaways:
- Psychological trauma shatters basic assumptions about safety and human connection
- PTSD symptoms involve intrusion, constriction, and hyperarousal
- Prolonged trauma in captivity leads to complex PTSD
Take Control of Your Life with Self-Help Techniques from EMDR Therapy
Francine Shapiro, the founder of EMDR therapy, provides practical techniques that align with the polyvagal theory, making this book a valuable resource for those seeking to process trauma effectively.
3 Key Takeaways:
- Unprocessed memories shape our emotions, behaviors, and beliefs
- EMDR therapy enables healing by reprocessing traumatic memories
- Self-awareness and control techniques can manage emotional triggers
Our Deepest Desire And Greatest Fear
Laurence Heller's work on the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) integrates the polyvagal theory, offering profound insights into how early trauma affects our ability to connect with others.
3 Key Takeaways:
- Early trauma shapes our adaptive survival styles and capacity for connection
- The Connection Survival Style: Disconnection as a coping mechanism
- Attunement Survival Style: Difficulty recognizing and expressing personal needs
