Workshop where Polyvagal Theory meets ACT  

Amy will give brief definitions of the key concepts in polyvagal theory as viewed through a functional contextual lens. She will then give some examples of how ACT techniques can be chosen and utilized based on nervous system state as a contextual variable. The importance of clinician and client co-regulation will be emphasized throughout this hour-long presentation. Experiential exercises will be part of this talk; de-identified client presentations will also be used. The last ten minutes will be reserved for participant questions. 

Intermediate level.

About Amy

Amy R. Murrell is a psychologist in private practice in Memphis, Tennessee in the USA. She also teaches as an Affiliate Faculty Member at the University of Memphis. 

She obtained her doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Mississippi in 2005, after completing her internship at the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center. 

Dr. Murrell has published research in the areas of  functional contextualism, indirect learning processes, child psychopathology and resiliency, and child and parent treatment development. She has specific expertise in relational frame theory (RFT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), both of which she has been working on since 2000. She has additional training and certification in the Safe and Sound Protocol, a music healing program guided by polyvagal theory. 

Dr. Murrell is a peer-reviewed ACT Trainer and Fellow of ACBS, the professional organization that is the academic home of ACT and RFT. She has authored over 130 peer-reviewed presentations and 40 publications on these topics specifically, including eight books for the public.

New to Polyvagal Theory? Watch the video below: