In this episode of CASAT Conversations, we are honored to welcome Dr. Arielle Schwartz, a clinical psychologist, somatic psychotherapist, and internationally recognized teacher whose work integrates the science of the nervous system with the art of embodied healing.

Arielle’s journey into the healing arts began with a deep curiosity about the mind-body connection and the intelligence of the nervous system. With a background in yoga, body-centered psychotherapy, and trauma treatment, she has spent her career bridging traditional talk therapy with somatic practices rooted in neuroscience, compassion, and resilience.

Through her writing, teaching, and clinical work, Dr. Schwartz brings warmth, clarity, and grounded expertise to topics like polyvagal theory, complex trauma, and post-traumatic growth. She is the author of numerous books, including The Complex PTSD Workbook and Applied Polyvagal Theory in Therapy, which have helped thousands of clinicians and clients around the world access tools for deeper healing.

In this episode, Dr. Schwartz shares:

• Why co-regulation is essential for therapeutic safety and healing

• How polyvagal theory offers a roadmap for understanding trauma responses

• Ways to cultivate nervous system flexibility through breath, movement, and attunement

• The importance of embodiment for mental health providers—and how to reconnect with your own body

• A critical perspective on the medicalization of psychotherapy and the need to honor our biological wisdom

• Practical strategies for helping clients access a felt sense of safety

• How somatic practices can support both clients and clinicians in staying grounded, open, and resilient

Join us for a rich and empowering conversation that invites you to tune into the wisdom of your body, embrace the power of presence, and remember that healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens in relationship, with a co-regulator by your side.

Key words: somatic therapy, polyvagal theory, mental health, co-regulation, neuroscience of trauma, body-mind integration

Resources: https://drarielleschwartz.com/