Module 2: Polyvagal Pathways
From Self-Regulation to Safe Co-Regulation
Developing the knowledge, judgement and sensitivity to work safely with someone else.
“I attended Kate’s polyvagal theory workshop. I knew the very basics before, but as I’m training in TRE® I wanted to understand it in a lot more depth. The training totally fulfilled this – it was very interesting and being in a group prompted great discussions. It was also very relaxed and I felt able to ask questions as I needed to I would certainly recommend Kate’s workshop for anyone who wants to understand Polyvagal theory in more depth Thank you Kate”
Module 2: “Polyvagal Pathways”
By the time you return for Module 2, you’ve spent several months developing your own TRE® practice.
You’ll have experienced the process in your own body, noticed patterns, asked questions and begun to trust the body’s innate capacity to move towards regulation.
Now the focus begins to shift towards teaching others. Module 2 marks the transition from personal practice towards professional facilitation.
The question is no longer simply, “What is happening in me?”
It becomes, “How do I safely support another person’s experience?” That shift lies at the heart of this module.
The Art of Safe Co-Regulation
Learning to facilitate TRE® isn’t about encouraging tremors or following a protocol.
It is about developing the sensitivity to recognise what another person may need in order to feel just a little safer.
Polyvagal Theory provides one of the key frameworks for understanding why this matters, but safe co-regulation is learned through practice rather than theory alone.
Throughout this module you’ll develop the subtle, moment-by-moment skills that underpin safe facilitation.
Rather than trying to create safety for another person, you’ll learn how to negotiate safety together—respecting choice, encouraging autonomy and responding to the person in front of you rather than relying on assumptions.
These seemingly small moments often make the greatest difference.
Understanding the Science
Module 2 explores the science that helps us understand these interactions more deeply.
Together we’ll explore:
- Polyvagal Theory and the defence cascade
- Neuroception and the continual search for cues of safety
- The neurophysiology of co-regulation
- Attachment and therapeutic presence
- Neuroplasticity and embodied learning
- The role of Fascia
- Clinical observation, pacing and professional judgement
The science is never taught as theory in isolation. It provides a framework for understanding what you’re observing in practice, helping you facilitate TRE® with greater confidence, clarity and sensitivity.
Developing the Skills of Facilitation
Facilitating TRE® is a skill that develops through observation, reflection and practical guided experience.
Throughout Module 2 you’ll begin working with others under careful guidance, learning how to pace sessions, respond to individual needs and support different nervous systems safely.
You’ll also continue learning within your cohort, discovering how much can be gained from observing different facilitation styles, sharing experiences and reflecting together through group supervision.
By the end of Module 2 you’ll have begun developing the confidence and clinical judgement needed for one-to-one TRE® facilitation, providing the foundation for the final stage of the programme.
Learning Through Supervised Practice
Module 2 marks the beginning of a new stage in your development as a TRE® Provider.
The learning now moves beyond the teaching weekend and into your own facilitation. Through supervised practice, you’ll begin integrating what you’ve learned while developing the confidence that only real experience can bring.
Working with practice clients allows you to apply the principles of safe co-regulation in real situations, learning to respond thoughtfully to different people, different presentations and the many nuances that can’t be taught in a classroom alone.
During this stage of the programme you’ll continue your own regular TRE® practice while completing practice case studies and participating in both one-to-one and group supervision.
Supervision is an opportunity to get feedbavck and ask questions. It is an essential part of the learning process. Reflecting on your own sessions, exploring challenges, celebrating successes and listening to the experiences of fellow trainees all deepen your understanding and strengthen your facilitation.
Supervision isn’t simply about refining your facilitation skills; it’s about continuing to develop the thoughtful judgement, presence and sensitivity that define a skilled TRE® Provider.
By the time you arrive at Module 3, you’ll have supported a range of practice clients, reflected on your work through supervision and developed the confidence that comes from experience. You’ll be ready to broaden your skills further through advanced interventions, group facilitation and exploring how TRE® can be safely and effectively shared with larger groups and diverse communities.
Scope of Practice
- We will define the scope of practice for students and TRE® Providers, ensuring clarity on roles, responsibilities, and ethical guidelines to provide safe and effective support for clients.
- Activities:
- Ethical Considerations: Discuss ethical dilemmas, confidentiality, and professional boundaries in TRE practice.
- Self-Care Strategies: Explore the importance of self-care, supervision, and ongoing professional development to maintain well-being and integrity in the role of a TRE facilitator.
About Kate
Kate is a trauma and emotional abuse specialist. She is a Global TRE® Certification Trainer & Mentor and current Chair of the TRE® UK Association. She is an EFTi Mentor & Advanced Accredited Practitioner, having served as Exec Director EFT International for 6 years and is a member of ACEP.
She is also an Accredited SSP Provider, and an Integrated Energy Psychology Practitioner and body worker with over 30 years of experience in the field.
Kate is privileged to have trained with Dr David Berceli (the creator of TRE®) and now teaches and Mentors TRE® students alongside offering regular trainings, workshops and 1:1 TRE® consultations and embodiment coaching.
While she works with any problem state she specialises in the sensitive areas of Post Traumatic Stress PTS symptoms (specifically narcissistic emotional abuse), chronic pain and anxiety.