Episoder

  • This episode provides a platform for survey participants to offer encouragement, personal insights, and advice to those also experiencing shutdown. The shared experiences discuss common themes such as shame, isolation, the body's autonomic responses, and ways to work compassionately through shutdown states. The episode also highlights the importance of small steps, self-compassion, and human connection in the journey towards safety and self-regulation.

    🔸 Shutdown Experiences Survey YouTube playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0wCusCOxhNUTWUAnJke_hpmNEEQ0atZZ

    🔸 Shutdown Experiences Survey audio playlist - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/e8b8596b-813f-4c1c-9466-33db32b96e88

    00:00 Intro to episode 244

    01:02 the Shutdown Experiences Survey

    02:32 Wisdom & Encouragement from Real People in Shutdown

    39:24 the Goals of the Survey

    41:59 Thanks for the kindness

    43:18 Book 2 and upcoming cohort

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

    Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast! When you do, you will immediately get the next episode as soon as it's available. What's better than having the next episode of SNB ready and waiting for you? (Nothing, that's what.)

  • Therapist and Coach Justin Sunseri explores how crying fits into the Polyvagal Theory. He shares insights from a private community meetup about crying as a self-regulatory process, emphasizing that it's not a Polyvagal state but a behavior to help climb the Polyvagal ladder. Justin discusses the different flavors of freeze, such as rage and panic, and provides practical advice on practicing safety and mindful releases to manage defensive activation states like anxiety and anger. The episode encourages building a foundation of safety and understanding one's defensive activations to handle intense emotional states better.

    00:00 Introduction

    00:39 Understanding Crying in Polyvagal Terms

    02:06 Exploring Freeze, Rage, and Panic

    05:54 Practical Tips for Self-Regulation

    07:55 Foundational Practices for Safety and Regulation

    12:57 Conclusion and Polyvagal Ladder resource

    - Download the Polyvagal Ladder sheet - https://assets-v2.circle.so/sghph3fthvh5cmeudlpxlw85ofy8

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

    Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast! When you do, you will immediately get the next episode as soon as it's available. What's better than having the next episode of SNB ready and waiting for you? (Nothing, that's what.)

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  • You're likely trying many things to feel mentally and emotionally better, but are they all effective? Learn to put your efforts into 4 different buckets to understand what is effective and what isn't.

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    00:00 Introduction to Trauma Recovery

    00:39 Understanding Your Goals

    01:19 Pathway 1: Establishing a Baseline

    02:56 Pathway 2: Coping Mechanisms

    05:55 Pathway 3: Practicing Safety

    09:00 Pathway 4: Relieving Stuck Defensive States

    12:44 Incorporating Micro Moments of Safety

    15:34 Conclusion and Homework

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

    Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast! When you do, you will immediately get the next episode as soon as it's available. What's better than having the next episode of SNB ready and waiting for you? (Nothing, that's what.)

  • Let's examine two unasked questions: “What do I feel?” and “How do I know I feel that way?” These questions lie at the heart of understanding our Polyvagal states and how they influence our emotions and physical sensations. By exploring the connection between mind and body, you can learn how to tune into your inner experiences with mindfulness and self-compassion.

    Chapters:

    02:00 Identifying Your Emotional State

    03:47 Practical Exercise: Recognizing Your State

    05:19 Deepening Your Emotional Awareness

    08:44 Concluding Thoughts and Resources

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

    Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast! When you do, you will immediately get the next episode as soon as it's available. What's better than having the next episode of SNB ready and waiting for you? (Nothing, that's what.)

  • Justin Sunseri shares an inspiring story from Macy to demonstrate effective self-regulation out of the Polyvagal state of shutdown. He explores Macy's experiences of navigating through states of immobilization—shutdown, freeze, and stillness—using music and movement to manage sympathetic activation. Justin also discusses why unexpected memories may pop into consciousness when practicing self-regulation.

    00:00 Introduction to Self-Regulation Story

    00:42 Macy's Experience with Shutdown and Freeze

    01:11 Understanding Different States of Immobility

    02:52 The Role of Safety in Self-Regulation

    06:36 Macy's Journey to Mobilization

    07:18 Welcoming Sympathetic Activation

    08:41 Macy's Memory and Co-Regulation

    09:11 Macy's Roundabout Memory

    10:25 Understanding Self-Regulation

    12:04 Present Moment Focus

    14:52 Handling Sympathetic Activation

    15:29 Upcoming Courses and Community

    16:53 Invitation to Stucknaut Collective

    18:05 Disclaimer

    🔸Download the free SSIEC sheet by signing up for the email list resource - https://www.justinlmft.com/ssiec

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

    Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast! When you do, you will immediately get the next episode as soon as it's available. What's better than having the next episode of SNB ready and waiting for you? (Nothing, that's what.)

  • Are you transitioning from a shutdown state to sympathetic mobilization? I address the common emotions of frustration, irritation, and anger as positive indicators of moving up the Polyvagal ladder.

    01:32 Teagan's Journey: From Shutdown to Stillness

    02:03 The Importance of Permitting Defensive States

    03:29 Imagery and Irritation: Teagan's Experience

    04:39 The Role of Fight Activation in Self-Regulation

    07:41 Movement and Sympathetic Activation

    09:31 Validating and Normalizing Fight Activation

    11:00 Embracing Self-Compassion

    11:20 Understanding Defensive States

    12:27 Navigating Shutdown and Activation

    13:57 The Role of Stillness in Self-Regulation

    15:11 Managing Frustration and Anxiety

    16:29 Sustaining Energy and Mobility

    19:16 Harnessing Frustration for Growth

    20:46 Invitation to the Stucknaut Collective

    21:58 Disclaimer and Final Thoughts

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

    Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast! When you do, you will immediately get the next episode as soon as it's available. What's better than having the next episode of SNB ready and waiting for you? (Nothing, that's what.)

  • What supports do real people in shutdown find the most helpful? And how many supports do they try? This is part 4 of the Shutdown Experiences Survey results.

    🔸Total Access Membership of trauma recovery courses and community - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸SNB: Book 1 - https://www.justinlmft.com/snb1

    🔸Learn the Polyvagal Theory simply and for free - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔹I'd love your feedback! - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZhfJa5_AWDN1D4zDO1nDMqs7gl0UrKpmuCqRYLmA5et08zg/viewform?usp=sf_link

    00:00 Introduction: You're Not Alone in Shutdown

    00:34 Survey Insights: Most Helpful Resources

    01:04 Exploring Support Options: What Works Best?

    04:29 Challenges in Overcoming Shutdown

    07:24 The Role of Co-Regulation and Support

    10:14 Non-Professional vs. Professional Support

    18:22 From Shutdown to Stillness

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255

    National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233

    LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386

    National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673

    Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741

    Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy. Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship. Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms. Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (99147).

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

    Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast! When you do, you will immediately get the next episode as soon as it's available. What's better than having the next episode of SNB ready and waiting for you? (Nothing, that's what.)

  • Let's practice validating! Can you validate the sensations, emotions, impulses, cognitions, and Polyvagal state in this story?

    00:00 Introduction to Validation

    00:07 Understanding Validation

    01:01 Domains of Validation

    01:45 Introducing the SSIEC Tool

    03:18 Story of Maria

    04:23 Analyzing Emotions and Cognitions

    06:31 Exploring Sensations and Impulses

    09:27 Polyvagal State Analysis

    15:20 Conclusion and Resources

    🔸Download the SSIEC sheet - https://www.justinlmft.com/ssiec

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

    Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast! When you do, you will immediately get the next episode as soon as it's available. What's better than having the next episode of SNB ready and waiting for you? (Nothing, that's what.)

  • Join therapist and coach Justin Sunseri as he delves into emotional validation and its role in self-regulation. Learn the first lesson from his course, Shutdown to Stillness, which focuses on compassionately validating and acknowledging your emotions as a critical step towards inner peace and self-regulation. Validation can lead to normalization and even permitting your emotions to be.

    00:00 Introduction to Emotional Invalidation

    01:27 Understanding Shutdown and Stillness

    01:47 The Autonomic Nervous System Overview

    04:35 Experiences of Shutdown

    05:21 The Importance of Stillness

    06:04 Combining Safety and Shutdown

    07:50 Validating Shutdown

    13:44 Self-Reflection

    15:31 Conclusion and Course Information

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

    Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast! When you do, you will immediately get the next episode as soon as it's available. What's better than having the next episode of SNB ready and waiting for you? (Nothing, that's what.)

  • Why do you get obsessive, ruminating, or scattered thinking? Justin Sunseri answers this question through the lens of the Polyvagal Theory. He explains freeze and then describes how that results in cognitive shifts.

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

  • Therapist and coach Justin Sunseri addresses a YouTube comment regarding persistent hyperarousal and difficulty accessing a state of ventral vagal safety. Justin discusses various perspectives and advice from members of his private community, highlighting the importance of small steps, connections with others, and mindful practices. The episode emphasizes the necessity of both internal and external sources of safety, including co-regulation with others and individual sensory experiences. Justin also mentions approaches like validating emotions, normalizing experiences, and incremental exposure to safety cues as critical components to overcoming emotional dysregulation.

    00:00 Introduction and Overview

    00:16 Reading a YouTube Comment

    03:15 Community Insights: Karen's Advice

    12:36 Community Insights: Flo's Journey

    17:08 Community Insights: Love Day's Experience

    19:20 Community Insights: Mandy's Perspective

    23:37 Understanding Co-Regulation

    24:20 Professional vs. Friendly Co-Regulation

    25:17 Using Co-Regulation Mindfully

    26:19 Alternative Ways to Co-Regulate

    27:35 Reconnecting with Others

    29:10 Community Insights on Co-Regulation

    30:21 Addressing Defensive State Activation

    34:43 Personalizing Your Approach

    43:13 Next Steps and Resources

    45:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

  • Learn what the Freeze trauma response is, the dangers of addressing it head-on, and how to start coming out of it.

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

  • Join therapist and coach Justin Sunseri as he addresses a key question from his private community about transitioning from dorsal vagal shutdown to sympathetic flight fight activation. In this episode of 'Stuck Not Broken,' Justin delves into the Polyvagal Theory, explaining how to safely navigate these states without reinforcing a shutdown pattern. He also provides insights into his upcoming book and exclusive cohort 'Shutdown to Stillness.' Learn how to live with more calm, confidence, and connection while enhancing your self-regulation skills.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:57 Understanding Shutdown and Sympathetic Activation

    03:12 The Role of Safety in Navigating Shutdown

    07:50 Practical Steps to Move from Shutdown to Mobilization

    10:42 Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions

    15:42 Updates on the Book and Future Plans

    20:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

  • Justin Sunseri addresses whether everyone can recover from trauma by accessing their Polyvagal safety state. He explains the nuances, emphasizing the importance of context, co-regulation, and healthy attachments.

    0:00 Can Anybody Self-Regulate and Recover from Trauma?

    01:43 Introduction to Safety Anchors and UDS

    02:08 Exploring the Concept of Safety Anchors

    03:53 The Role of Co-Regulation in Safety

    04:33 Challenges of Practicing Alone

    05:01 Building a Supportive Environment

    06:46 Barriers to Achieving Safety

    07:54 Impact of Personal Growth on Relationships

    🔹Join my Email list and get StucknautBot! - https://stucknotbroken.ck.page/stucknautbot

    🔹SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔹Polyvagal Trauma Relief System - https://www.justinlmft.com/traumarelief

    🔹Polyvagal Intro - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔹I'd love your feedback! - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZhfJa5_AWDN1D4zDO1nDMqs7gl0UrKpmuCqRYLmA5et08zg/viewform?usp=sf_link

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

  • I answer questions about self-regulation and our safety state - should we challenge the capacity of our distress tolerance? Will this help strengthen our vagal brake?

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

  • Justin Sunseri continues his exploration of the Shutdown Experiences Survey, this time discussing the results of how dorsal vagal shutdown affects people on a daily basis. How effective do people feel they are coping? How do they alter their daily lives?

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

  • Justin Sunseri addresses a question about neurodivergence, safety, and connection. What does safety look like for someone who is "neurodivergent"?

    🔸Total Access Membership of trauma recovery courses and community - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸Free ebook, "Trauma & the Polyvagal Paradigm" when you sign up for my email list - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸Learn the Polyvagal Theory simply and for free - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔹I'd love your feedback! - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZhfJa5_AWDN1D4zDO1nDMqs7gl0UrKpmuCqRYLmA5et08zg/viewform?usp=sf_link

    00:00 Introduction: Meet Justin Sunseri

    00:13 Taking a Break: Life Updates and Future Plans

    00:38 Addressing Neurodivergence: Safety, Connection, and Community Q&A

    01:19 Exploring Safety and Connection in Neurodivergence

    02:57 Personalizing Safety: Beyond Social Norms

    05:20 Embracing the Present: Safety, Connection, and Personal Growth

    07:41 Conclusion and Invitation to Engage

    08:36 Disclaimer and Resources

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

  • I share the second round of results from my Shutdown Experiences Survey, including how far away safety feels and how long people live in shutdown. Gain new language for your experiences, plus lots of validation and normalization.

    00:00 Introduction to episode 227

    01:32 How far away does safety feel?

    06:56 How long have you been in shutdown?

    10:16 How long do acute shutdown experiences last?

    13:10 Personal Shutdown Stories: Voices from the Survey

    20:13 Support and Resources for Navigating Shutdown

    🔸Total Access Membership of trauma recovery courses and community - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸Free ebook, "Trauma & the Polyvagal Paradigm" when you sign up for my email list - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸Learn the Polyvagal Theory simply and for free - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸Shutdown playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0wCusCOxhNV0uWZIPt3bDvYNNh5kwnDX

    🔹I'd love your feedback! - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZhfJa5_AWDN1D4zDO1nDMqs7gl0UrKpmuCqRYLmA5et08zg/viewform?usp=sf_link

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

  • Justin shares the felt experience results of his "Shutdown Experiences Survey." Real people in dorsal vagal shutdown share about their emotions, thoughts, and more. You will get more validation and normalization from this episode. Learn language for your shutdown experiences and ideas on what to do about it.

    🔸Total Access Membership of trauma recovery courses and community - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸Free ebook, "Trauma & the Polyvagal Paradigm" when you sign up for my email list - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸Learn the Polyvagal Theory simply and for free - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸SSIEC sheet download - https://www.justinlmft.com/ssiec

    🔹I'd love your feedback! - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZhfJa5_AWDN1D4zDO1nDMqs7gl0UrKpmuCqRYLmA5et08zg/viewform?usp=sf_link


    0:00 Real People Share Real Experiences of Dorsal Vagal Shutdown (SNB 227)

    01:00 the Shutdown Experiences Survey

    02:43 Emotions of Shutdown

    08:09 Thinking from Shutdown

    11:30 Sensations of Shutdown

    14:34 Impulses of Shutdown

    18:06 What is it like to be in shutdown?

    20:09 What's the Solution to Shutdown?

    23:14 Outro

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).

  • Justin and Mercedes discuss a Bad Therapy story of poor boundaries and where it leads. If you have your own Bad Therapy story, send it to [email protected]

    Resources:

    🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members

    🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess

    🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro

    🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books

    🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0

    Crisis resources:

    National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergency

    This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

    Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).