Polyvagal Theory and the Use of Biofeedback: For Working with the Harmful Circles of Missing, Murder, and Kidnapping Events

5 Sundays between 09:30-12:15, on the dates: 01.09.24, 08.09.24, 15.09.24, 22.09.24, 29.09.24

Course description :

The events of October 7 and the "Iron Swords" War created a complex reality of dealing with trauma on a scale and intensity we had never known before, including dealing with the kidnapping and captivity of civilians, along with many other losses. A. Therapists from all over the country, experts in working with trauma, came forward for this unique therapeutic work. Over time, the unique characteristics of the current traumatic situation are being revealed and the need for training in treating families of missing and kidnapped people, upon their return from captivity, and their family members.

The current course is designed to train women and therapists to work with the cycles of harm and trauma of missing persons, murder, and kidnapping through the poly-vagal model and the use of biofeedback.

Course objectives:

1. Understanding the ambiguous loss in cases of abduction and absence and the unique treatment phases in these situations.

2. Understanding the circles of harm in cases of absence and captivity, as well as of returning hostages.

3. Acquiring significant knowledge about cultivating mental resilience, finding meaning and personal growth in situations of loss and grief – a hope-focused approach to "both and" thinking.

4. Introduction to the polyvagal theory.

5. Learning the applications of polyvagal theory in cases of trauma with an emphasis on biofeedback.

6. Introduction to the principles of supportive group work based on the poly-vagal model.

7. Training workshop in biofeedback using a "Reflect" ball.

Main Lecturer:

Galit Itzhaki Drezin - Jungian psychotherapist, MSW, criminal profiler. Has been working in the field of absences for over a decade, both in Israel and in the therapeutic research arena worldwide .

Guest lecturers:

Danny Hamiel - Clinical and medical psychologist, associate professor at the Ivtsar School of Psychology at Reichman University, professional director at the Cohen Harris Resilience Center in Tel Aviv.

Dr. Michal Gruberger - neuropsychologist and brain researcher, manages scientific development at Reflect.

Target audience:

Psychiatrists, psychologists from all areas of expertise (including interns), social workers with bachelor's and master's degrees, expressive and creative therapists, and educational consultants.

Course cost:

• Therapists in the private sector: 900 NIS

• Therapists in the public sector: 500 NIS.