WC25 Program_LR 8

TRACK WORKSHOPS

520. Polyvagal Theory and The Psalms: Integrating Ancient Voices and Autonomic States in Clinical Practice 1.25 credit hours Continuing Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: ASWB, NBCC, NAADAC, IBCC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling Level: Intermediate Anna Christine Seiple, M.A. University of St. Andrews Summary Polyvagal Theory provides a framework for understanding how autonomic nervous system states influence emotional regulation, cognitive processing, and behavioral respons es. This workshop will explore the application of Polyvagal Theory in clinical practice, including strategies for inte grating it with the Christian faith for clients who request faith-based interventions. Using passages from the Psalms, participants will examine how ancient voices’ expressions of distress align with autonomic states—ventral vagal,

sympathetic, and dorsal—and how these insights can in form therapeutic approaches. Case studies will illustrate how autonomic regulation impacts treatment modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), equipping clinicians with practical tools for assessment and inter vention. Ethical considerations regarding faith integration in psychotherapy will also be discussed. This workshop is designed for licensed mental health professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of Polyvagal Theory and its applications in both secular and faith-integrated clinical settings. Learning Objectives 1. Describe the basics of Polyvagal Theory to enhance case conceptualization and treatment planning, with special attention to autonomic states. 2. Outline an ethically informed approach to faith-based integration of Polyvagal Theory, specifically using bibli cal texts to explain the theory, ensuring alignment with informed consent protocols for faith-based interventions with willing Christian clients. 3. Apply Polyvagal Theory to existing therapeutic modalities, developing integrative interventions for clinical practice.

2025 AACC UNITED WORLD CONFERENCE

190