Polyvagal Informed Approach to Therapeutic Work with Children and Young People

Karen O’Neill is an adult psychotherapist, child therapist, parent-infant therapist, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Europe Accredited Practitioner. Based in the UK, she offers psychotherapy to individuals as well as clinical supervision and consultancy work. Her specialist interest is parent-child dyads to strengthen the relationship between them.Tara McDonald is a child therapist, adult psychotherapist, and clinical supervisor based in the UK. She works with individuals through a polyvagal and attachmentfocused lens. Her passion is in supporting parents and carers who might be experiencing difficulties or hurt in their journey as a parent.

“A Polyvagal Informed Approach to Therapeutic Work with Children & Young People by Karen O’Neill and Tara McDonald offers an insightful and compassionate guide for therapists, teachers, and parents seeking to understand and apply the Polyvagal framework in supporting the well-being of children and young individuals. Through compelling narratives told in the voices of children, readers witness the theory in action, enhancing understanding and relatability. With clear explanations, practical examples, and actionable strategies, this book delves into the nuanced interplay between the autonomic nervous system, social engagement, and emotional regulation. Through case studies and interventions rooted in play and metaphor, readers gain insights into navigating complex emotions, trauma, and developmental challenges. This essential resource emphasizes safety, co-regulation, and healthy nervous system development, offering hope and resilience in the face of adversity.”Stephen W. Porges, PhD. Distinguished University Scientist & Founding Director of Traumatic Stress Research Consortium, Kinsey Institute.“This book is a really useful resource for a wide range of therapists and other professionals working with children. It explains Porges' theories and potential applications very well, but more than that, it provides a solid foundation for linking an understanding of the nervous system with other essential aspects of therapeutic work, such as transference and countertransference, metaphor, and play. The authors do this by using easy to understand clinical examples alongside solid helpful tools that practitioners will be grateful for.”Dr Graham Music: Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist, Tavistock Centre, Author, and Trainer“Karen and Tara’s book, ‘A Polyvagal Informed Approach to Therapeutic Work with Children & Young People’ is exceptional in simplifying the Polyvagal Theory. Their book brilliantly delves into how leveraging play as a therapeutic approach gets to the root of important concepts, fostering profound healing and deeper connections in therapy. It navigates complex ideas making them accessible and relevant to readers of all backgrounds. This book is a resource for anyone seeking knowledge and practical ways of implementing the Polyvagal Theory.”Jackie Flynn: Licensed Psychotherapist, Registered Play Therapist, certified EMDR Therapist, EMDR Consultant

• Introduction 1. Introducing the Polyvagal Theory 2. Our Six Storytellers 3. Internal Surveillance System 4. Shaping Behaviour and Sense of Safety 5. Emotional Regulator 6. Perceptions of Play and Metaphor 7. Integrating the Polyvagal Theory into Practice 8. Scaffolding Caregivers and Teachers 9. Pandemic Hangover 10. Healing through a Polyvagal Lens