Autism in Polyvagal Terms: Neural Exercises to Cultivate Safety for the Neurodiverse

Описание: Jan Winhall of Embodied Dialogues Podcast welcomes guest Sean Inderbitzen, author of Autism in Polyvagal Terms: New Possibilities and Interventions for a thought-provoking dialogue on how polyvagal theory intersects with neurodiversity, with a particular focus on autism.

Sean Inderbitzen is a seasoned interpersonal neurobiologists and Jan Winhall is the creator of Felt Sense Polyvagal Theory. Together, they explore the key characteristics often associated with being autistic, including:

1. Rigid and restrictive patterns of interest and behavior
2. Challenges in responding to social overtures

Sean offers a fresh perspective through the lens of a neural exercise framework and will provide practical tips to foster deeper connections and reduce feelings of “stuckness.” The goal is to enhance quality of life by activating the ventral vagal system—the part of the nervous system that supports safety, connection, and flexibility. In this regulated state, individuals may experience the spontaneous emergence of more meaningful relationships and greater adaptability.

The neural exercise framework incorporates techniques from established traditions such as:

-Sensorimotor psychotherapy
-Social work pedagogy
-Motivational interviewing
-Safety cultivation practices
--Mindfulness approaches
-Biofeedback methods

About Sean Inderbitzen
Sean M. Inderbitzen, DSW, LCSW, is an autistic psychotherapist and researcher through Mayo Clinic Health System. He regularly trains healthcare professionals to be more confident when working with people on the spectrum. He is the author of Autism in Polyvagal Terms: New Possibilities and Interventions, published by W. W. Norton.
LinkedIn:   / dr-seaninderbitzen  
Instagram:   / inderbitzen.consulting  

About Jan Winhall
Jan Winhall, M.S.W. P.I.F.O.T. is an author, teacher and seasoned trauma and addiction psychotherapist. She is an Educational Partner and Course Developer with the Polyvagal Institute where she offers a training program based on her book Treating Trauma and Addiction with the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model, Routledge 2021. Completion of all three levels leads students to become Felt Sense Polyvagal Model Facilitators. Her new book, 20 Embodied Practices for Healing Trauma and Addiction with the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model, Norton, 2025, is a manual that guides therapists and anyone wanting to heal from trauma and addiction through somatic practices. She is an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Toronto and a Certifying Co-Ordinator with the International Focusing Institute. Jan is Co-Director of the Borden Street Clinic where she supervises graduate students. She enjoys teaching all over the world.