Polyvagal Theory and Adler: ‘Connectedness is a Biological Imperative’ with Anthea Millar

Part of the CAPS Virtual 2021 Trauma Series

“We enter the world wired to connect and embark on a lifelong quest to feel safe in our bodies, in our environment, and in our relationship with others.” So states Stephen Porges, the originator of the Polyvagal Theory. Nearly 100 years earlier, Alfred Adler’s holistic biopsychosocial approach had similarly emphasized how social relationships and our safeguarding strategies are at the center of understanding responses to stress and trauma.

In this online interactive session, Anthea Millar outlines Porges’ theory, making links with Adler’s approach, and introduces some practical applications of the Polyvagal theory in therapy.