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Is Polyvagal Theory still valid? And what does the latest scientific debate mean for your play therapy practice?

Polyvagal Theory (PVT), developed by Stephen Porges, has become one of the most widely used frameworks in trauma-informed therapy. But recent critiques from neuroscientists and researchers are challenging key assumptions about the vagus nerve, autonomic nervous system hierarchy, and the evidence behind PVT.

If you’re a play therapist using Polyvagal Theory — or teaching it to parents — you’ve probably felt that quiet question in the back of your mind:
 “Am I explaining this accurately… or just repeating what I was taught?”

You’re not alone.

In this podcast episode, we break down the current Polyvagal Theory debate in a way that actually makes sense — without requiring a neuroscience degree or a second cup of coffee just to survive it.

Because here’s the truth:

Even when theories are debated, your clinical work still needs to be grounded, ethical, and effective.

🎯 In this week's episode, you’ll learn:

✔️ A clear, simplified explanation of Polyvagal Theory
 ✔️ The main scientific critiques of PVT (what’s being questioned—and why)
 ✔️ What parts of Polyvagal Theory still hold clinical value
 ✔️ How to responsibly use nervous system concepts in play therapy
 ✔️ How to explain regulation and safety to children and parents with confidence

💡 Whether you’re feeling confused, curious, or slightly betrayed by your favorite theory (yeah… we went there), this episode will help you separate what’s useful from what’s uncertain — so you can keep showing up as a grounded, confident play therapist.

👇 Tell me in the comments:

 Are you using Polyvagal Theory in your play therapy sessions? What questions has this debate brought up for you?

Here are some resources if you’d like to explore the issues in more depth:

Grossman, P., et. al. (2026). Why Polyvagal Theory is untenable. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, 23,(1), 100-112.  doi: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20260111

Porges, W. S. (2026). when a critique becomes untenable: a scholarly response to Grossman et al.’s evaluation of Polyvagal Theory. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, 23(1), 113-128.  doi.org/10.36131/cnfioritieditore20260111

Ana Lund Substack articles are an interesting read from a clinician’s perspective

• Scientists vs. The Polyvagal Industrial Complex is 
• Autonomic Nervous System Literacy for Therapists: The Lowdown

Dr. Birthe Macdonald has also written and shared some interesting articles on Substack (my new nerdy place to get some neuroscience scoop from the scientific community)

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