The Science Behind My Work
“I know some of these terms can feel new or clinical. This page is here to bring clarity and groundedness to the language I use in my work.”
Here’s a look at the evidence-based frameworks that shape my practice:
The Polyvagal Theory
Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the Polyvagal Theory offers a groundbreaking understanding of the nervous system. It shows how our sense of safety, connection, and danger is shaped not just by thoughts but by automatic, physiological responses.
At the heart of this theory is the vagus nerve, which helps regulate how we respond to stress and whether we feel safe enough to connect or need to shut down.
Polyvagal-informed care helps us shift from survival mode (fight, flight, or freeze) into states of calm, connection, and capacity.
“Safety is the treatment.” — Dr. Stephen Porges
Rhythms of Regulation: Deb Dana’s Approach
Deb Dana, LCSW is a pioneer in applying Polyvagal Theory to therapy, coaching, and everyday life. Through her Rhythms of Regulation framework, she brings the science into a deeply compassionate, human context.
Her work helps us recognize our nervous system “states” with curiosity, not judgment, and learn how to gently regulate through anchoring, attunement, and co-regulation.
“The autonomic nervous system is always listening, asking, ‘Am I safe?’” — Deb Dana
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
IFS, developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, is a therapeutic model that sees each of us as having a system of “parts”- protective, wounded, or exiled aspects that form in response to our life experiences.
Rather than pathologizing these parts, IFS helps us befriend and understand them. At the core of each person is a calm, wise presence called the Self. From this place, deep healing and inner leadership becomes possible.
“All parts are welcome.” — Dr. Richard Schwartz
Somatics: Healing Through the Body
Somatic work means healing through the body, not just the mind. Many of our survival responses and traumas live in muscle memory, posture, breath, and nervous system patterning.
By gently tuning in to your body’s sensations, movements, and impulses, we begin to build a deeper sense of felt safety, presence, and embodied wholeness.
This work is especially powerful for trauma, dissociation, anxiety and patterns that can’t be shifted by insight alone.
Why It Matters
The frameworks I use are gentle, science-based, and deeply respectful of the body’s wisdom.
Together, they help us understand not just why we feel stuck—but how to create lasting change through safety, connection, and internal harmony.
Book a 25 minute- complimentary new client consultation to learn more.