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This year, PVI invites the global polyvagal community to gather at the beautiful Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa
on Amelia Island for The Vagus Nerve: A Path to Wellness. Together we will explore Polyvagal Theory and the vagus nerve in ways that deepen understanding, connection, and health. This event is designed to be both enriching and restorative—an opportunity to engage in cutting-edge discussions with top experts, explore practical applications, and integrate new insights— all in a setting that nourishes the mind, body, and nervous system. In addition to our Main Stage Presentations, both in-person and virtual tickets include opportunities for co-regulation and community connection.
We can’t wait to share this experience with you!
Hotel Reservations
Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa
Use this exclusive link to book on-site accommodations with our special event room rate. See more location details here.
The Vagus Nerve: A Path to Wellness
Our Main Stage Presenters
Stephen Porges, PhD
Developer of Polyvagal Theory &
Co-Founder of Polyvagal Institute
Dr. Porges offers a live Q&A Session with questions gathered throughout the conference from live and virtual guests. This session focuses on insights into the latest developments in Polyvagal Theory and its real-world applications, and how the vagus nerve impacts our autonomic nervous system states and our overall wellbeing. Don't miss this chance to ask your burning questions and gain firsthand wisdom from one of the most influential voices in the field.
Peter Staats, MD, MBA
President, Founder, and Co-Chair of the Vagus Nerve Society
The Bioelectric Revolution
The human body is a complex network of chemical and electrical signals. For the past 75 years, healthcare has largely focused on chemical and surgical interventions, often overlooking the critical role of bioelectricity in health and disease. The Bioelectric Revolution highlights a profound and current paradigm shift in modern medicine. Bioelectric medicine—particularly vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)—is emerging as a transformative tool for addressing the root causes of illness rather than merely managing symptoms. This talk explores how harnessing the body’s own electrical signals is reshaping healthcare, offering both invasive and non-invasive, non-pharmacological therapies that improve patient outcomes across a wide range of conditions.
Steven Cole, PhD
Researcher, Professor
Molecular Biofeedback: Parasympathetic Regulation of Gene Expression
This talk outlines the role of the autonomic nervous system and the vagus nerve in regulating human genome function, including the basic physiologic, cellular, and molecular mechanisms involved; their role in disease (particularly sympathetic regulation of inflammatory gene expression) and stress resilience (parasympathetic support for antiviral gene expression); their contributions to social epidemiology and health disparities; their evolutionary roots; and the emerging prospect of “molecular biofeedback” to help shape lifestyle and behavior to maximize human health and well-being.
Niki Elliott, PhD
Educator, Author, and PVI Board Member, Director of the ​Center for Embodied Equity and Neurodiversity (CEEN) at University of San Diego
Supporting Neurodivergent Students from a Polyvagal Perspective
Dr. Elliott's presentation will explore how awareness of polyvagal theory and the vagus nerve impacts K-12 educators' ability to implement effective teaching strategies for neurodivergent students, as well as those impacted by trauma. She will introduce her Embodied Learning Framework, which offers a holistic way of supporting neurodivergent learner's vagal tone through five key areas of support in schools: physiological, relational, instructional, environmental, and transcendental. She will share examples of transformational research conducted with educators from elementary through middle school, and explore how learning improves for all students when educators teach with a polyvagal lens in mind.
C. Sue Carter, PhD
Researcher, Distinguished University Scientist
Rudy Professor Emerita of Biology, and former Director of The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University
The Polyvagal-Peptide Perspective and Stress:
A Hormetic Hypothesis
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Embedded in the regulation of vagal pathways are two ancient peptide hormones, oxytocin and vasopressin. The polyvagal-peptide system supports social attachments, survival and longevity. The endocrine and immune adaptations that lie at the heart of this integrated system facilitate resilience and the capacity to cope with stress. This presentation will discuss the role of the vagus, oxytocin and vasopressin in the biological process known as hormesis. Awareness of “stress-response hormesis” offers a unifying polyvagal perspective on many superficially divergent practices and may suggest ways to optimize the biological systems that support hormesis during therapeutic interventions.
Jan Winhall, MSW, FOT
Developer of the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model
Depathologizing Trauma and Addiction Treatment with the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model
The Felt Sense Polyvagal Model (FSPM) helps clinicians to appreciate the vital role of embodied processes for healing and offers a powerful somatic therapeutic framework for individuals and couples healing from trauma and addiction. The model teaches two skills: recognizing and rewiring nervous system states, and tapping into body wisdom through the practice of felt sensing. Research shows that interoceptive practices such as felt sensing engage the vagus nerve, increasing clients’ capacity for health, growth and restoration. Applications of the FSPM will be discussed, including case examples of working with trauma and addiction, couples and families, and conducting somatic assessments with the Embodied Assessment and Treatment Tool.
Michael Allison
Polyvagal-Informed Performance Expert
Autonomic Agility: Fostering safe, trusting, and adaptable individuals, families, and teams
This presentation, which includes a panel discussion, introduces 'autonomic agility,' a concept that integrates ventral vagal tone (VVT) and vagal efficiency (VE) to optimize resilience, healing, trust, and performance. We will explore practical applications of autonomic agility, including our ability to shift between empathy and compassion, engage in co-regulation and self-regulation, and skillfully navigate both connection-based and protection-driven autonomic states with awareness and intention. The discussion will highlight how autonomic agility is at the heart of aligned and adaptable relationships, families, and teams —whether between coach and player, therapist and client, parent and child, or organization and leader —enhancing overall well-being, performance and trust.
Arielle Schwartz, PhD
Clinical Psychologist and Somatic Expert
Therapeutic Yoga for Trauma Recovery: Applying the Principles of Polyvagal Theory for Self-Discovery, Embodied Healing, and Meaningful Change
Dr. Schwartz will focus on the intersection of applied polyvagal theory, affective neuroscience, and trauma-informed care within therapeutic yoga. Conscious breathing, mindful movements, and trauma-sensitive meditation practices all help to foster autonomic nervous system health. Yoga helps to enhance vagal regulation which forms a foundation for resilience as measured by physiological stabilization, emotional regulation, cognitive flexibility, and co-regulatory capacity. This lecture will help you gain a better understanding of how the brain and body responds to stress and trauma. Through gentle experiential practices, you will learn simple yogic breath and movement interventions to enhance vagal efficiency, vagal tone, and an overall sense of wellbeing.
Elisa Song, MD
Polyvagal-Informed Pediatrician
Helping Kids Thrive in Our Modern World: Could Vagus Nerve-Microbiome Resilience Be the Missing Link?
At the intersection between health and disease lies the Vagus Nerve and the Gut Microbiome. Gut dysbiosis and leaky gut can adversely affect heart rate variability, and low heart rate variability can adversely affect gut microbiota composition and function. The key to breaking this vicious cycle is understanding how to create Vagus Nerve and Microbiome Resilience - every day! In this session, practitioners will learn fun and practical ways to teach families how to use powerful yet simple diet and lifestyle modifications to create Microbiome Magic every day!
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BG Mancini
Neurodevelopmental Specialist, Acupuncture Physician and Primary Care Provider
The Microbiome, Microtraumas & The Mind:
Cultivating Safety from Within
Explore how hidden stressors like food sensitivities, sensory processing challenges, and inflammatory responses shape our health and sense of safety. Microtrauma impacts accumulate over time to disrupt the body’s natural ability to self-regulate, leading to chronic stress, physical imbalance and nervous system state changes. We’ll reframe chronic illnesses, autoimmunity, and challenges with trauma resolution as symptoms of systemic dysregulation. This talk will empower individuals and clinicians with actionable insights to optimize therapeutic outcomes for themselves, and to support clients in cultivating safety from within through a new lens.
Donnalea Goelz, PhD
Researcher and Somatic Psychology Expert
Research-Supported Somatic Vagus Exercises
that Make a Difference
This presentation shares the tools used in a somatic polyvagal-informed intervention/research project recently completed at the University of Florida, Gainesville. Integrating the wholeness of body, mind, and spirit through breath, sound, movement exercises, as well as tuning into sensations can make a difference. The presentation is experiential and the skills learned can be helpful for you as an individual as well as for your family, friends, and clients.
Stephen Porges & Anthony Gorry
How Sonic Augmentation Technology is
Shaping the Future of Well-Being
Sound has the power to heal, inspire, and transform. But can it do more—can it guide us toward Sonostasis, an emerging concept in which sound fosters nervous system balance and physiological harmony. In this experiential presentation, Dr. Stephen Porges and Anthony Gorry will explore the groundbreaking potential of Sonic Augmentation Technology. Rooted in neuroscience and physiology, this innovative approach blends science and artistry to create immersive, evidence-based auditory experiences that regulate the nervous system and enhance well-being. A live demonstration will offer participants the opportunity to feel firsthand how specific rhythms and frequencies can promote calm and support healing.
Ticket Types: What's included?
Choose the ticket that is right for you-- and SAVE by purchasing an Early Bird ticket in advance!
Your In-Person Ticket Includes:
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In-person Access to Main Stage Presentations
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Online Access to all Main Stage Presentations
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Access to all In-person and Virtual Opportunities for Community Connection & Co-Regulation
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Access to the on-site Co-Regulation Room
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Access to our digital Event Community Space
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An invitation to our Social Hour on Friday, with refreshments and hors d'oeuvres
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Breakfast on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday plus coffee break refreshments
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Option to add 9 CEs for live attendance
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Access to the full event presentation recordings for 365 days
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In-person seats and
on-site accommodations are limited; we recommend securing your tickets early!
Your Virtual Ticket
Includes:
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Online access to all Main Stage Presentations
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Access to all Virtual Opportunities for Community Connection & Co-Regulation
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Access to our digital Event Community Space
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Option to add 9 CEs for 100% live, real-time attendance
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Access to the full event presentation recordings for 365 days
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Refund Policy: Up until October 15, 2025 you may cancel your event registration and choose to either receive a full refund or switch your in-person registration to a virtual ticket and receive the difference in price refunded back to your original payment type. We are unable to issue any refunds after October 15, 2025. However, in-person ticket holders may still access virtual content.
Note that PVI's ticket refund policy and deadline may differ from any room cancellation policy with the hotel. Please contact the hotel directly for specific policies related to your reservation.
Event Schedule
Our schedule features leaders in Polyvagal Theory and the science of the vagus nerve, including sessions with Dr. Stephen Porges, developer of Polyvagal Theory. Whether attending in person or virtually, you will have opportunities to engage deeply and experience polyvagal principles in action through shared community practices. A full daily schedule including meals and break times, social gatherings, and opportunities for Co-Regulation and Connection will be provided upon registration and closer to the date of the event.
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In-person attendees are welcome to attend any Virtual Co-Regulation & Connection sessions online using your own device.
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A Co-Regulation Room will be available for in-person attendees during all Main Stage Presentations. Attendees are invited to take a break from the main event hall to connect and receive peer support. Suggestions for Connection and Co-Regulation will be provided. Visits of 15-20 minutes are welcome.
Hotel & Transportation
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and lush marshlands, the Omni Amelia Island Resort offers the perfect setting to explore Polyvagal Theory and the vagus nerve, deepen connections, and recharge in a space designed for both intellectual and nervous system nourishment.
Getting Here
Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa
39 Beach Lagoon Rd,
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034​
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is 45 minutes (29 miles) away by car or taxi.
Available Amenities
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Check-in: 4:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM
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Complimentary self-parking available for guests
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Onsite dining, spa, golf, and nature trails
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Several on-site restaurants for dining
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No car needed—everything is within walking distance
Reserve Your Stay
A block of rooms has been set aside at a special group rate for 2025 PVI International Gathering attendees. This exclusive discount offers over 30% off the standard published rates on the hotel website. ​
*PVI is including breakfast with your
in-person event ticket.
Rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The special hotel rate is available to book until September 26, 2025. We recommend booking early.
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Please pack comfortable walking shoes, layers for varying temperatures, and anything you need to fully enjoy the beach, resort amenities, and outdoor spaces.
Continuing Education Credits (CEs/CEUs)
• CE credits for psychologists are provided by the Spiritual Competency Academy (SCA) which is co-sponsoring this program. The Spiritual Competency Academy is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Spiritual Competency Academy maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
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• The California Board of Behavioral Sciences accepts CE credits for LCSW, LPCC, LEP, and LMFT license renewal for programs offered by approved sponsors of CE by the American Psychological Association.
• LCSW, LPCC, LEP, and LMFTs, and other mental health professionals from states other than California need to check with their state licensing board as to whether or not they accept programs offered by approved sponsors of CE by the American Psychological Association.
• SCA is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN Provider CEP16887) for licensed nurses in California. RNs must retain their certificate of attendance for 4 years after the course concludes.
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This event will provide 9 optional CEs for LMFTs, LMHCs, LCSWs, LPCCs, psychologists, and nurses for an additional cost of $60.
You will have the opportunity to add CEs to your registration during the check-out process.
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In order to be eligible for CEs, you must attend all Main Stage Presentations on all days of this event, live and in real time.
If you are attending virtually, you must attend all sessions on all days with your camera ON for the full duration of each presentation.
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For questions about receiving your Certificate of Attendance for this event, contact Polyvagal Institute at info@polyvagal.org​
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For questions about CEs, contact Spiritual Competency Academy at info@spiritualcompetencyacademy.com
For questions about whether or not APA CEs are valid for your license type, please contact your local licensing board directly.
Learning Objectives
1/ List two general types of genes that are regulated by the autonomic nervous system.
2/ Identify clinical indicators that suggest when to refer clients for gut, microbiome, or nervous system support, enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration.
3/ Summarize research on the microbiome’s influence on mental, emotional, and physical health, including its implications for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and chronic illness.
4/ Explain the nature of hormesis and why the vasopressin-oxytocin system may be critical to hormesis.
5/ Explain addiction through a polyvagal lens.
6/ Demonstrate how to enhance health through natural vagus nerve stimulation.
7/ Explain how the ability to fluidly shift between autonomic states—play, connection, fight/flight, conservation, and recovery— impacts autonomic agility and affects resilience, performance, a sense of purpose, trust, and well-being.
8/ Evaluate the role of bioelectric medicine and vagus nerve stimulation in modulating the autonomic nervous system and improving clinical outcomes across various medical conditions.
9/ Explain the critical role of vagal tone in prosocial behavior and optimal learning especially in the context of working with neurodivergent students.
10/ Identify the most common factors that disrupt children’s gut microbiomes.
11/ Explain how the vagus nerve impacts our autonomic nervous system states and relates to our overall wellbeing.
Event Community Space & Virtual Access
The Thinkific Platform
Thinkific is our Learning Management System (LMS). Once you register to attend this event, you'll receive a confirmation and Welcome Email encouraging you to head to our learning platform to find additional details specifically for ticket holders. You will find detailed schedules, travel information, access to Zoom links for the event live stream, presentation recordings, our Event Community Space, and more.
For additional tech support, please view our For Learners page.
Event Community Space
Connect with fellow attendees in our dedicated Event Community Space. Network with other professionals, make dinner plans, discuss presentation topics, or arrange to share a taxi to the event location. This digital space is hosted on our learning platform, and is open to both in-person and virtual attendees once you are registered.
Virtual Access &
Event Recordings
All ticket types include access to the event live stream (via Zoom). Your registration also includes access to the event recordings of the Main Stage Presentations for 365 days. You'll also find virtual event access and the recordings (when ready) at the link below.