( HS Kase 150614 2026) Polyvagal Therapist Core Skills Session 3: The Autonomic Nervous System and the Preparation Hierarchy
Tracking # 20-1383491
Course overview
Participants will deepen their understanding of the autonomic nervous system and its clinical applications by expanding on the Preparation Hierarchy introduced previously. We will explore the three autonomic pathways and their evolutionary progression, the autonomic ladder described in Polyvagal Theory, alongside critical perspectives of this model. Case vignettes and assessment tools, including the Body Perception Questionnaire and a shortened autonomic assessment measure, will be used to identify physiological markers of individual and blended pathways. Finally, we will examine how context, culture, neurodivergence, and common DSM diagnoses shape autonomic functioning and vagal regulation, preparing participants to apply these insights in trauma-informed clinical practice.
Subject areas
This course counts toward the state boards and subject areas below.
Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling
Certified Master Social Worker
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Florida Board of Psychology
Limited License Psychologist
Psychologist
Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board
Licensed Independent Marriage and Family Therapist
Licensed Independent Social Worker
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Social Worker
Marriage and Family Therapist
Registered Social Worker Assistant
Disclosure statements
Financial: Rebecca Kase maintains a private practice and is the CEO of Trauma Therapist Institute. She previously received royalties from Bilateralstimulation.io. Rebecca Kase receives royalties as a published author. She receives a speaking honorarium, book, and recording royalties from Psychotherapy Networker and PESI, Inc. She has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.
Non-financial: Rebecca Kase is a member of the American Psychological Association, EMDR International Association, the International Society for the Study of Traumatic Dissociation, and the Yoga Alliance.