Overview

By presenting the autism diagnosis through the lens of a disordered nervous system-that is, by applying Polyvagal Theory-this book opens new avenues for intervention and treatment, while challenging age-old assumptions of what autism means and how it presents itself. Here, Sean Inderbitzen-a therapist as well as someone living with autism-encourages clinicians to conceptualize their autistic clients' difficulties with social interactions and cognitive flexibility through a polyvagal lens. Inderbitzen argues that individuals with autism can be thought of as having deficits in accessing their ventral vagal nervous system-the system which promotes flexibility and connection to others. The book explores strategies to address these challenges through familiar tools such as motivational interviewing, clinical social work pedagogy, sensorimotor psychotherapy, mindfulness, biofeedback, and cultivating a sense of safety. Autism in Polyvagal Terms is an essential new text for anyone who works with individuals on the autism spectrum.

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9781324053217

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Reviews

This book opens a powerful new conversation between interventions based on naturally occurring biobehavioral phenomena associated with an autonomic state of defense and a newer form of behavioral and cognitive therapy based on the psychology of mindfulness, cognitive flexibility, and emotional openness. Its methods are presented clearly but humbly, in a spirit of open examination and clinical consideration--a spirit that will help dismantle needless walls between traditions as we focus on creative new ways to advance the interests of the clients we serve. On almost every page I found interesting ideas worthy of study, exploration, and empirical examination. Highly recommended.--Steven C. Hayes, PhD, Foundation Professor of Psychology, emeritus, University of Nevada, Reno, and originator of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Autism in Polyvagal Terms adds an important and previously overlooked understanding of the challenges faced by autistic people and offers new insights to provide support. Sean Inderbitzen, drawing from his firsthand experiences as an autistic person informed by his expertise as a mental health professional, explains how Polyvagal Theory helps to interpret an autistic person's reactions through the lens of underlying neural mechanisms, and then provides guidance through actionable recommendations. This work is a significant, cutting-edge contribution to our current understanding of autism and promising treatment approaches.--Barry M. Prizant, PhD, CCC-SLP, author of Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism, and adjunct professor, department of communicative disorders, University of Rhode Islan Autism in Polyvagal Terms is a refreshingly friendly, candid, accessible, and practical read. Drawing on scientific research, engaging case studies, and personal anecdotes, the author explains that those with autism are living with a nervous system in a state of threat, and then goes on to describe a wide range of interventions guided by qualities like kindness and organicity to help this population attain a felt sense of safety. A priceless treasure for the ASD community and professionals who work with them, this book evokes a deep sense of compassion for those with autism, elucidates the source of their challenges, and offers a variety of skills to use in practice. Highly recommended!--Pat Ogden, CEO and founder of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute(R) Autism in Polyvagal Terms will explain why many autistic people have so much anxiety. My nervous system was reacting as if I were in a jungle surrounded by dangerous predators. This book will give therapists a framework to understand how the autistic nervous system is related to many autistic behaviors.--Temple Grandin, author of Thinking in Pictures

Author Information

Sean M. Inderbitzen, DSW, LCSW, 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. Stephen W. Porges, PhD, originator of Polyvagal Theory, is a Distinguished University Scientist and founding director of the Kinsey Institute Traumatic Stress Research Consortium at Indiana University, and a professor of psychiatry at the University of North Carolina. He lives in Atlantic Beach, Florida.

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