ODW2026 Treating Complex Trauma in Clinical Practice: Polyvagal, Parts-Work & Somatic Tools (Jenifer Freedy, MEd, RSW, CCC)

Many clients with complex trauma arrive in therapy having tried everything—yet still feel stuck in survival mode. In this powerful course, Jenifer Freedy shares practical, neuroscience-informed tools for treating complex trauma in clinical practice that help therapists move beyond insight and support real, lasting healing.

Successfully treating complex trauma in clinical practice requires more than insight-oriented approaches. Many trauma-impacted clients present with symptoms that resist traditional talk therapy—leaving clinicians feeling stuck. This two-part on-demand course offers a clear, neuroscience-informed framework that equips therapists with practical tools rooted in Polyvagal Theory, Parts-Work therapy, and the SIBAM technique.

Understanding the Neurobiology of Trauma

In Part 1, Jenifer Freedy, MEd, RSW, CCC, draws on her 25+ years of experience to explore how autonomic defense states shape client functioning. You’ll learn to recognize the signs of dysregulation through the lens of Polyvagal Theory and understand how to assess and respond to various nervous system states in session. This module also introduces foundational Parts-Work concepts, guiding you to identify Protector Parts, support internal communication, and reduce internal conflict through gentle integration.

Practical Tools for Treating Complex Trauma in Clinical Practice

In Part 2, the focus shifts to right-brain processing strategies that bypass the limitations of verbal recall. Jenifer introduces the SIBAM technique—a structured, sensory-based method that facilitates trauma resolution by engaging sensation, imagery, behavior, affect, and meaning. Through demonstrations and practical guidance, you’ll gain confidence using somatic interventions, right-brain language, and pacing techniques that support client safety and regulation both during and between sessions.

By the end of this 6-hour training, you’ll walk away with:

• A working knowledge of Polyvagal Theory as applied in clinical treatment
• Tools to identify and engage ego states and internal Parts
• Strategies to incorporate sensory and somatic interventions into therapy
• Skills for using the SIBAM technique with trauma-impacted clients
• Greater confidence treating complex trauma in clinical practice

About the Presenter

Jenifer Freedy is a respected educator and clinician who has contributed to trauma research alongside Dr. Ruth Lanius and served as a professor of trauma and loss at King’s University College. She brings warmth, clarity, and deep clinical insight to her teaching. Jenifer currently works in private practice supporting youth, adults, and parents through trauma recovery and emotional regulation.

1. Describe the foundational principles of the Polyvagal Theory and their relevance to trauma treatment.
2. Identify autonomic defense states and how they present in clinical settings.
3. Explain the role of ego states and Parts in post-trauma reactions.
4. Apply Parts-Work techniques to support integration and reduce internal conflict.
5. Define the components of the SIBAM technique and explain its clinical application.
6. Utilize right-brain language and processing techniques to address trauma material beyond verbal recall.
7. Assess client readiness and determine appropriate pacing for trauma-focused interventions.

This training offers 6 hours of direct contact (not counting breaks or lunch). It is the participant’s responsibility to check with their individual state boards/regulatory body to verify CE requirements for their license to practice.

Attendees of the original live broadcast receive instructions on how to obtain their Certificate of Participation at the end of the course and in the “recording ready” email, which is sent 1-2 days after the live course has ended.

Attendees watching the previously recorded/on-demand version must complete a Post-Webinar Quiz with a passing grade of at least 80% to verify their attendance and receive their Certificate of Participation.

Note: The course recording is available only after the live broadcast has ended.

The Certificate of Participation includes:

• Name of participant.
• Title of training.
• Name of presenter plus their credentials.
• Number of hours of training.
• Date of training.
• Confirmation of 100% attendance at the original live broadcast OR a passing grade of at least 80% on the recorded on-demand version post-course quiz.

Get details about CE credits for Canadian and non-US international participants.

Get details about CE credits for US participants.

Please check with your regulatory body/organization to ensure that this certificate is sufficient proof for you to claim CE credits.

• Marriage and Family Therapists
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• Graduate Students in accredited programs in the above fields
• Case Managers
• Licensed Professional Counsellors
• All other professionals who would like to develop, update, or expand their skills and knowledge in mental health practices