Anxiety often lives in the body as much as in the mind—manifesting as racing heart, shallow breath, muscle tension, and a pervasive sense of threat. This training introduces clinicians to body-based approaches for calming the nervous system and restoring a sense of safety. Drawing from polyvagal theory, mindfulness, and somatic psychotherapy, this training explores how anxiety is maintained through physiological patterns and how targeted somatic techniques can interrupt these cycles. Participants will learn practical, evidence-informed interventions that help clients tune into body awareness, regulate their autonomic nervous system, and reduce anxiety symptoms, fostering a deeper sense of presence and resilience.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to
- Explain the physiological basis of anxiety using concepts from polyvagal theory.
- Identify at least three somatic indicators of anxiety in clients.
- Apply at least two body-based interventions for helping clients regulate their nervous system and reduce anxiety.
Syllabus:
Introduction
Objective #1: Foundations of Anxiety and the Nervous System
- Understanding Anxiety Responses
- Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic Activation
- The “Alarm System” Concept
Objective #2: The Body’s Role in Anxiety
- Physiological Symptoms and Sensations
- The Window of Tolerance
- How the Body Maintains Anxiety
Objective #3: Somatic Intervention Strategies
- Breathwork Techniques
- Grounding and Orientation
- Body-Based Regulation Practices
Objective #4: Clinical Application
- Integrating Somatic Techniques into Sessions
- Supporting Client Awareness
- Building Regulation and Resilience
Summary/Q&A
Social workers completing this course receive 2 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 2 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Dreya Blume, LCSW
Recording Date: April 15, 2026
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2025 - 08/6/2026. Social workers completing this course receive 2hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com