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Power of Neuroplasticity and Polyvagal Theory

Workshops & Seminars
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Objective:

OPD Points: 4

Join us for an all-day workshop on October 28th at The Treacy Centre, Parkville

As our understanding of the brain and nervous system advances, the fields of neuroplasticity and Polyvagal Theory emerge as crucial for grasping the neurophysiological underpinnings of psychology and behaviour.

The science of neuroplasticity and the Polyvagal Theory are intertwined as they explain our underlying neural platforms for attachment, regulation, relationships, and adaptability to learn and thrive as a human.

This is an exciting time to learn about how discoveries in neuroplasticity can be utilized to improve function and client outcomes. Learn the science behind Neuroplasticity and the Polyvagal Theory including strategies and interventions to maximize neural adaptability for your clients. 

This workshop includes the opportunity to learn about various neuro-based technological tools with hands-on experience: – Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), HRV biofeedback, iLs [Focus] System, Neurofeedback, Dreampad and BrainHQ

 

The Safe and Sound Protocol, developed by Dr Porges is an extension of his Polyvagal Theory. The SSP is an acoustic vagal nerve stimulation therapy. During this workshop, you will have the opportunity to experience the Polyvagal Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). 

Outline:

Learning Objectives

Understand the key organizing principles of the Polyvagal Theory and its application to clinical practice in mental health- Neuroception; Hierarchy of the ANS; Social Engagement System, and Co-Regulation.

Learn the science of neuroplasticity and how to improve neural networks for optimal mental health

Understand how subcortical structures support higher cortical functions- the connection with body-based regulation strategies

Learn the neurobiology of safety within the framework of Polyvagal Theory and its implications for mental health

Understand the defence cascade (fight, flight, freeze) and its implications in therapy and relationship with comorbid health conditions

Understand defensive bias.

Understand the relationship of the Autonomic Nervous System and state regulation.

Understand neuroplasticity-based and polyvagal-informed regulation strategies.

Learn about the ear-to-brain connection and the impact of auditory sensitivity on mental health

Learn about neurotechnology tools that help drive neuroplasticity.

 

Attendees will learn about the science of Neuroplasticity and Polyvagal Theory and their application in mental health. Attendees will learn practical strategies based on Polyvagal Theory to improve state regulation that can be implemented immediately. Attendees will learn about neuroplasticity-based neurotechnology tools such as Neurofeedback, HRV biofeedback, and the Polyvagal Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), and their role in mental health.

Content:

Registration 8:30 am

 9 -12:30 pm- Morning Session

9 – 10:30 am The Science of Neuroplasticity

Break 10:30- 10:45 am

10:45 – 11:45 am Polyvagal Theory- An Overview

11:45 – 12: 30 pm Neuroplasticity and Polyvagal Intertwined and the Application in Mental Health

Lunch 12:30-1:15 pm

Polyvagal Theory and Neuroplasticity in Practice

Polyvagal State Regulation Strategies

Group Polyvagal Safe and Sound Protocol group listening experience

Break 3 pm- 3:15 pm

3:15 – 5 pm Neurotechnology tools to help drive neuroplasticity

Neurofeedback; Integrated Listening System; Safe and Sound Protocol; Transcutaneous Vagal Nerve Stimulation; BrainHQ

HRV biofeedback demo

Group Break out to explore Neurotechnology tools.

Summary of Key Points 

Question and Discussion

 

 Overview

Neuroplasticity- History, Research and Present Understanding

Micheal Merzenich’s research

  • Use it or Loose it!
  • Neurons that fire together wire together
  • Practice Practice Practice
  • Neurogenesis
  • Neural Networks- hubs
  • Subcortical Supporting higher cortical functions

Our Amazing Brain- Learn basic Neuroanatomy within a Polyvagal framework 

  • Brainstem
  • Thalmus
  • Amygdala
  • Hippocampus
  • Cerebellum
  • Mirror Neurons
  • Peri-Personal Neurons
  • Insula
  • Frontal Lobe
  • Vestibular system
  • Key Neurochemicals- Dopamine, Seratonin, Acetylcholine, BDNF

Polyvagal Theory- Overview

Key Concepts: Hierarchy; Neuroception; Co-Regulation

Autonomic Nervous System- Evolutionary Biology – Sympathetic System; Parasympathetic System

Neurobiology of stress

  • Early life development: Attachment
  • HPA axis
  • ACE study

Defence Cascade- neurobiology of our defence system- fight, flight and freeze and application in clinical presentation- Anxiety; Depression or PTSD

Polyvagal Social Engagement System

  • Linked cranial nerves- Facial; Trigeminal; Glossopharyngeal; Accessory, and Vagus nerve
  • The Social Brain- Social Isolation and Pain Networks

Conditions to Optimize Brain Neuroplasticity- Polyvagal-Neuroplasticity Inseparable

  • Overview of the connection and interplay of neuroplasticity and Polyvagal Theory

Tools to implement today

  • Science of Exercise- Dr John Ratey’s work
  • Science of Gut Health- Gut-Brain Axis
  • Science of Stress- Robert Sapolsky’s research
  • Polyvagal-based exercises- Breathwork; Voice work
  • Facial Feedback Hypothesis

Neurotechnology tools to help drive neuroplasticity

  • Ear-to-Brain Connection- Polyvagal Safe and Sound Protocol- Acoustic Vagal Nerve Stimulation Therapy-Group listening experience
  • HRV biofeedback demo

Group Break out to explore Neurotechnolgy tools.

  • Neurofeedback
  • HRV Biofeedback
  • iLs System
  • Dreampad
  • Brainhq

Summary of Key Points 

 

Question and Discussion

Presenter / Provider:

Joanne McIntyre

Presenter Qualifications:

OT, MS (Psychology)
Joanne McIntyre is the Clinical Director at Integrated Listening Australia and Executive Director at Polyvagal Australia and New Zealand. She is an Occupational Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. She completed a Master of Science majoring in Psychology (University of Southern California) while residing in the USA for 23 years and was accepted at LaTrobe University School of Psychology for PhD studies. Joanne presented the Power of Neuroplasticity workshop on 7 occasions for OTA in 2018/19. Presented The Neurobiology of Safety in Autism for OTA. Presented a series of webinars for APS about Clinical Applications of Polyvagal Theory in 2021 and was asked to present further about Polyvagal Theory in 2022. Presented 2 webinars; The Defense Cascaid and Polyvagal Theory in Stress/Trauma and Understanding Cardiovagal Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback in Mental Health within a Polyvagal Framework. In 2018, presented in collaboration with the  Australian Childhood Foundation workshops about Polyvagal Theory and research about the Safe and Sound Protocol applied to working with traumatized children Joanne provides education in Polyvagal Theory and is the Endorsed Trainer/Support for Australia & New Zealand for Porges’ evidence-based acoustic vagal nerve stimulation therapy; The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Joanne completed Board Certification in Neurofeedback; HRV Biofeedback; SIPT cert; iLs and SSP trainer, EMDR trained, and host of the Safe and Sound Protocol Podcast: A Polyvagal Informed Therapy

Contact:

  • Joanne McIntyre
  • 0413 738 958
  • joanne@integratedlistening.com.au
Visit Website
Car Parking:
Available
Disabled Parking:
Yes
Meals Included:
Yes
Meal Info:
Morning, lunch and afternoon tea are provided. Please indicate dietary preference during registration.

Start / End Date

October 28, 2024
October 28, 2024

Cost:
$350

Address:

126 The Avenue Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria 3052
The Treacy Centre
Melbourne
VIC
3052
Australia
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