EMDR Through a Polyvagal Theory Lens
EMDR Therapy | Trauma Recovery | Nervous System Regulation
Understanding trauma involves more than just exploring the mind—it requires us to understand how the nervous system reacts to danger, safety, and connection. That’s where Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, meets EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). This powerful combination offers deep insight into how trauma is stored in the body and how healing can take place.
The Nervous System Ladder: A Polyvagal Overview
Polyvagal Theory describes three primary nervous system states as rungs on a ladder. Our position on the ladder reflects how safe or threatened we feel—and how our body responds.
🛑 Dorsal Vagal Response: Shutdown & Immobilization
Position: Bottom of the ladder
When escape from danger feels impossible, the body shuts down to avoid further harm.
Symptoms: Numbness, dissociation, fatigue, feeling “spaced out” or blank-minded.
Biological Purpose: This survival mechanism mimics “playing dead” and is often triggered in cases of extreme trauma or helplessness.
⚡ Sympathetic Response: Fight or Flight
Position: Middle of the ladder
In the face of threat, the body mobilizes energy to either escape or defend.
Symptoms: Racing heart, shallow breathing, anxiety, anger, tension, hypervigilance.
Biological Purpose: Keeps us safe through action—fighting, fleeing, or over-functioning.
💬 Ventral Vagal Response: Social Engagement & Safety
Position: Top of the ladder
When we feel safe, we connect with others and regulate effectively.
Symptoms: Calmness, emotional clarity, connection, creativity, open communication.
Biological Purpose: Builds bonds, fosters healing, and allows us to thrive in relationships.
Using Polyvagal Theory in EMDR Therapy
In trauma therapy, EMDR practitioners integrate polyvagal theory to normalize clients’ responses and help them regain agency over their emotions and behaviors. Understanding where you are on the nervous system ladder allows for more targeted interventions during EMDR sessions.
🧠 Awareness and Naming
Clients learn to recognize whether they’re in a dorsal (shut down), sympathetic (activated), or ventral (regulated) state. Naming these states creates distance from shame and builds emotional intelligence.
🔄 Increasing Flexibility
One goal in therapy is to increase a client’s ability to move between states appropriately. For example, recognizing when you’re in fight-or-flight mode—and using techniques to return to safety and calm.
Practical Steps in Polyvagal-Informed EMDR
1. Notice
Begin by tuning into physical sensations: tight chest, numbness, restlessness, or peace. What is your body telling you?
2. Name
Label your state: “I’m feeling frozen,” “I’m anxious and can’t sit still,” or “I feel grounded and safe.”
3. Navigate
Learn how to move up the ladder:
Deep breathing and grounding exercises to calm the nervous system
Bilateral stimulation (used in EMDR) to process trauma while staying regulated
Connection with safe people to activate the ventral vagal system
Understanding your body's responses transforms your relationship with trauma. Instead of labeling reactions as overreactions or weakness, you begin to honor your biology and build new pathways to healing.
💬 Call to Action: Begin Your Healing Journey Today
Are you feeling stuck in patterns of anxiety, shutdown, or emotional overwhelm?
EMDR therapy informed by polyvagal theory can help you safely process trauma, restore your sense of self, and return to a place of calm and connection.
👉 Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward nervous system healing and emotional freedom.
Let’s rewire your response to trauma—together.