Embodying the Polyvagal in the Playroom

Learning Objectives:

1. Become familiar with the nervous system states as outlined by Polyvagal Theory
2. Understand what creates a nervous system that defaults to threat states
3. Recognize the states in the play, the child, the therapist and the playroom.
4. Understand working in the right hemisphere, the social engagement system, prosody, pace and presence
5. Explore techniques to assess and invite regulation
6. Engage in embodied, experiential exercises designed for the therapist to familiarize and explore the use of Self in creating safety

Bio
Rachael Pasemko, MA, RSW, RCC, RPT-S, CPT-S, is a BC-based social worker, clinical counsellor, and play therapy supervisor who has spent 16 years immersed in the playroom. Her work is grounded in a somatic, attachment-focused approach to play therapy, with particular attention to how the nervous system shapes connection, regulation, and repair.  Rachael offers individual supervision, facilitates a community of warm, wise play therapists in consultation groups, and writes about the intersection of theory, practice, and heart on Substack.