Polyvagal-Informed Group Therapy

A supportive, community-based therapy model that uses nervous system awareness and co-regulation practices to help groups heal together.

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Quick Overview

A snapshot of who this therapy is for and how it works

Best for

Trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, isolation, recovery communities, group resilience

Session format

Group (6–12 participants typical) · In person or Virtual

Typical cadence

Weekly or biweekly · Session length: 75–120 minute

Duration

Short-term (8-12 sessions) or going peer-support groups

Often combined with

Group CBT, DBT skills group, Somatic Experiencing, mindfulness practices, trauma recovery workshops

Evidence base

Rooted in Dr. Stephen Porges’ Polyvagal Theory and increasingly applied in group therapy and community healing

What Is Polyvagal-Informed Group Therapy?

Polyvagal-Informed Group Therapy applies the science of Polyvagal Theory to a group setting, helping participants understand their system states and use co-regulation with others for healing.

In this format, group learn to

Recognizing Survival Responses

Recognize patterns of fight, flight, or shutdown in themselves and peers

Building Collective Safety

Build collective safety through shared nervous system awareness

Shared Regulation Practices

Practice regulation tools together, such as breathwork, grounding, and gentle movement

Normalizing Trauma Responses

Normalize trauma responses by hearing other's experiences

How Group Polyvagal Therapy Helps in Recovery

Building safety and regulation through shared awareness

Strengthens co-regulation

Group members practice calming one another

Build resilience collectively

Communities learn to support nervous system health

Support trauma recovery

Group safety lowers shame and reactivity

Encourages empowerment

Shared practices can be carried into daily life

What to Expect in Sessions

Group therapy sessions often include:

Psychoeducation

Learning how the nervous system shapes safety and connection

Group regulation practices

Breathwork, sound, grounding, or mindfulness together

Mapping nervous system states

Identifying triggers and building shared awareness

Interactive exercise

Pair or group activities for practicing co-regulation

Reflection and Integration

Group sharing, journaling, or calming rituals

Who Benefits from Polyvagal-Informed Group Therapy

Support for individuals seeking safety, connection, and emotional regulation

Polyvagal-informed group therapy benefits people who experience chronic stress, trauma responses, emotional dysregulation, or feeling of isolation.

Trauma Survivors

Survivors of trauma, neglect, or abuse seeking safety, regulation, and healing

Emotional Regulation Support

Individuals with anxiety, depression, or stress-related issues

Addiction Recovery Support

People in addiction recovery or relapse prevention

Collective Trauma Recovery

Communities impacted by collective trauma or crisis

Group-Based Healing

Anyone seeking supportive, relational healing in a group format

Why TruPaths Highlights Polyvagal-Informed Group Therapy

TruPaths highlights this approach because healing often requires community as much as individual work. Polyvagal-Informed Group Therapy empowers participants to co-regulate, build safety, and recover together.

FAQs about Polyvagal-Informed Group Therapy

Do I have to share my trauma?

No. The focus is on nervous system awareness and regulation practices, not detailed trauma sharing.

Is it good for addiction recovery?

Yes. It helps regulate the nervous system, reduce triggers, and support emotional safety—key factors in long-term recovery.

How is this different from other group therapies?

It focuses on how the body responds to stress and safety, not just thoughts or behaviors, creating deeper emotional regulation.

Is it covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by provider and plan. Some insurers cover it when led by a licensed therapist.

Can groups be virtual?

Yes. Polyvagal-informed groups can be effective both online and in person.

Find Recovery Options Offering Polyvagal-Informed Group Therapy

Healing grows stronger in community. Polyvagal-Informed Group Therapy helps participants build safety, resilience, and trust through shared regulation and connection.

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About TruPath's Recommendations

Recommendations are based on your location and recovery needs, including the programs you've explored, the services you've saved, and the filters you've used. We use this information to highlight similar treatment options so you never miss a trusted path forward.