Autism in Polyvagal Terms

A vital new framework for working with clients on the spectrum.

By presenting the autism diagnosis through the lens of a disordered nervous system—that is, by applying Polyvagal Theory—this book opens new avenues for intervention and treatment, while challenging age-old assumptions of what autism means and how it presents itself.

Sean Inderbitzen, an autistic therapist, encourages clinicians to conceptualize their work with autistic clients through a polyvagal lens. Inderbitzen argues that individuals with autism can access their ventral vagal nervous system to promote flexibility and connection to others, and effective polyvagal theory ideas and exercises can help their clients do so. An essential new text for anyone who works with clients on the spectrum, this book explores strategies to address these challenges through familiar tools such as:

• motivational interviewing
• clinical social work pedagogy
• sensorimotor psychotherapy
• mindfulness
• biofeedback
• cultivating a sense of safety in sessions