Stuck Not Broken

Why do you get obsessive, ruminating, or scattered thinking? Justin Sunseri answers this question through the lens of the Polyvagal Theory. He explains freeze and then describes how that results in cognitive shifts.Resources:🔸 Wondering what to do next? https://bit.ly/4ozbppZ🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0Crisis resources:National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergencyThis and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).Mentioned in this episode:Self-Regulation SimplifiedSelf-Regulation Simplified is a step-by-step, 8-week Polyvagal-informed program for those ready to move beyond frustration and build real, lasting self-regulation skills—together. Learn more about Self-Regulation Simplified - https://www.stucknotbroken.com/self-regulation-simplified

Therapist and coach Justin Sunseri addresses a YouTube comment regarding persistent hyperarousal and difficulty accessing a state of ventral vagal safety. Justin discusses various perspectives and advice from members of his private community, highlighting the importance of small steps, connections with others, and mindful practices. The episode emphasizes the necessity of both internal and external sources of safety, including co-regulation with others and individual sensory experiences. Justin also mentions approaches like validating emotions, normalizing experiences, and incremental exposure to safety cues as critical components to overcoming emotional dysregulation.00:00 Introduction and Overview00:16 Reading a YouTube Comment03:15 Community Insights: Karen's Advice12:36 Community Insights: Flo's Journey17:08 Community Insights: Love Day's Experience19:20 Community Insights: Mandy's Perspective23:37 Understanding Co-Regulation24:20 Professional vs. Friendly Co-Regulation25:17 Using Co-Regulation Mindfully26:19 Alternative Ways to Co-Regulate27:35 Reconnecting with Others29:10 Community Insights on Co-Regulation30:21 Addressing Defensive State Activation34:43 Personalizing Your Approach43:13 Next Steps and Resources45:53 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsResources:🔸 Wondering what to do next? https://bit.ly/4ozbppZ🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0Crisis resources:National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergencyThis and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).Mentioned in this episode:Self-Regulation SimplifiedSelf-Regulation Simplified is a step-by-step, 8-week Polyvagal-informed program for those ready to move beyond frustration and build real, lasting self-regulation skills—together. Learn more about Self-Regulation Simplified - https://www.stucknotbroken.com/self-regulation-simplified

Explore the intricacies of the Freeze trauma response through the lens of polyvagal theory. Discover the delicate balance between sympathetic activation and dorsal vagal shutdown. Learn how traditional therapies might worsen the freeze state and why safety is crucial for healing. Mindful practices are highlighted as essential tools for self-regulation and emotional release. Tune in for insights on safely navigating out of this complex emotional state!

Join therapist and coach Justin Sunseri as he addresses a key question from his private community about transitioning from dorsal vagal shutdown to sympathetic flight fight activation. In this episode of 'Stuck Not Broken,' Justin delves into the Polyvagal Theory, explaining how to safely navigate these states without reinforcing a shutdown pattern. He also provides insights into his upcoming book and exclusive cohort 'Shutdown to Stillness.' Learn how to live with more calm, confidence, and connection while enhancing your self-regulation skills.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:57 Understanding Shutdown and Sympathetic Activation03:12 The Role of Safety in Navigating Shutdown07:50 Practical Steps to Move from Shutdown to Mobilization10:42 Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions15:42 Updates on the Book and Future Plans20:25 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsResources:🔸 Wondering what to do next? https://bit.ly/4ozbppZ🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0Crisis resources:National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergencyThis and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).Mentioned in this episode:Self-Regulation SimplifiedSelf-Regulation Simplified is a step-by-step, 8-week Polyvagal-informed program for those ready to move beyond frustration and build real, lasting self-regulation skills—together. Learn more about Self-Regulation Simplified - https://www.stucknotbroken.com/self-regulation-simplified

Justin Sunseri addresses whether everyone can recover from trauma by accessing their Polyvagal safety state. He explains the nuances, emphasizing the importance of context, co-regulation, and healthy attachments.0:00 Can Anybody Self-Regulate and Recover from Trauma?01:43 Introduction to Safety Anchors and UDS02:08 Exploring the Concept of Safety Anchors03:53 The Role of Co-Regulation in Safety04:33 Challenges of Practicing Alone05:01 Building a Supportive Environment06:46 Barriers to Achieving Safety07:54 Impact of Personal Growth on Relationships🔹Join my Email list and get StucknautBot! - https://stucknotbroken.ck.page/stucknautbot 🔹SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess 🔹Polyvagal Trauma Relief System - https://www.justinlmft.com/traumarelief 🔹Polyvagal Intro - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro 🔹I'd love your feedback! - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZhfJa5_AWDN1D4zDO1nDMqs7gl0UrKpmuCqRYLmA5et08zg/viewform?usp=sf_linkResources:🔸 Wondering what to do next? https://bit.ly/4ozbppZ🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0Crisis resources:National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergencyThis and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).Mentioned in this episode:Self-Regulation SimplifiedSelf-Regulation Simplified is a step-by-step, 8-week Polyvagal-informed program for those ready to move beyond frustration and build real, lasting self-regulation skills—together. Learn more about Self-Regulation Simplified - https://www.stucknotbroken.com/self-regulation-simplified

I answer questions about self-regulation and our safety state - should we challenge the capacity of our distress tolerance? Will this help strengthen our vagal brake?Resources:🔸 Wondering what to do next? https://bit.ly/4ozbppZ🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0Crisis resources:National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergencyThis and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).Mentioned in this episode:Self-Regulation SimplifiedSelf-Regulation Simplified is a step-by-step, 8-week Polyvagal-informed program for those ready to move beyond frustration and build real, lasting self-regulation skills—together. Learn more about Self-Regulation Simplified - https://www.stucknotbroken.com/self-regulation-simplified

Justin Sunseri continues his exploration of the Shutdown Experiences Survey, this time discussing the results of how dorsal vagal shutdown affects people on a daily basis. How effective do people feel they are coping? How do they alter their daily lives?Resources:🔸 Wondering what to do next? https://bit.ly/4ozbppZ🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0Crisis resources:National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergencyThis and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).Mentioned in this episode:Self-Regulation SimplifiedSelf-Regulation Simplified is a step-by-step, 8-week Polyvagal-informed program for those ready to move beyond frustration and build real, lasting self-regulation skills—together. Learn more about Self-Regulation Simplified - https://www.stucknotbroken.com/self-regulation-simplified

Justin Sunseri addresses a question about neurodivergence, safety, and connection. What does safety look like for someone who is "neurodivergent"?🔸Total Access Membership of trauma recovery courses and community - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess🔸Free ebook, "Trauma & the Polyvagal Paradigm" when you sign up for my email list - https://www.justinlmft.com/books🔸Learn the Polyvagal Theory simply and for free - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro🔹I'd love your feedback! - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZhfJa5_AWDN1D4zDO1nDMqs7gl0UrKpmuCqRYLmA5et08zg/viewform?usp=sf_link00:00 Introduction: Meet Justin Sunseri00:13 Taking a Break: Life Updates and Future Plans00:38 Addressing Neurodivergence: Safety, Connection, and Community Q&A01:19 Exploring Safety and Connection in Neurodivergence02:57 Personalizing Safety: Beyond Social Norms05:20 Embracing the Present: Safety, Connection, and Personal Growth07:41 Conclusion and Invitation to Engage08:36 Disclaimer and ResourcesResources:🔸 Wondering what to do next? https://bit.ly/4ozbppZ🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0Crisis resources:National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergencyThis and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).Mentioned in this episode:Self-Regulation SimplifiedSelf-Regulation Simplified is a step-by-step, 8-week Polyvagal-informed program for those ready to move beyond frustration and build real, lasting self-regulation skills—together. Learn more about Self-Regulation Simplified - https://www.stucknotbroken.com/self-regulation-simplified

I share the second round of results from my Shutdown Experiences Survey, including how far away safety feels and how long people live in shutdown. Gain new language for your experiences, plus lots of validation and normalization.00:00 Introduction to episode 22701:32 How far away does safety feel?06:56 How long have you been in shutdown?10:16 How long do acute shutdown experiences last?13:10 Personal Shutdown Stories: Voices from the Survey20:13 Support and Resources for Navigating Shutdown🔸Total Access Membership of trauma recovery courses and community - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess🔸Free ebook, "Trauma & the Polyvagal Paradigm" when you sign up for my email list - https://www.justinlmft.com/books🔸Learn the Polyvagal Theory simply and for free - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro🔸Shutdown playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0wCusCOxhNV0uWZIPt3bDvYNNh5kwnDX🔹I'd love your feedback! - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZhfJa5_AWDN1D4zDO1nDMqs7gl0UrKpmuCqRYLmA5et08zg/viewform?usp=sf_linkResources:🔸 Wondering what to do next? https://bit.ly/4ozbppZ🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0Crisis resources:National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergencyThis and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).Mentioned in this episode:Self-Regulation SimplifiedSelf-Regulation Simplified is a step-by-step, 8-week Polyvagal-informed program for those ready to move beyond frustration and build real, lasting self-regulation skills—together. Learn more about Self-Regulation Simplified - https://www.stucknotbroken.com/self-regulation-simplified

Justin shares the felt experience results of his "Shutdown Experiences Survey." Real people in dorsal vagal shutdown share about their emotions, thoughts, and more. You will get more validation and normalization from this episode. Learn language for your shutdown experiences and ideas on what to do about it.🔸Total Access Membership of trauma recovery courses and community - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess🔸Free ebook, "Trauma & the Polyvagal Paradigm" when you sign up for my email list - https://www.justinlmft.com/books🔸Learn the Polyvagal Theory simply and for free - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro🔸SSIEC sheet download - https://www.justinlmft.com/ssiec 🔹I'd love your feedback! - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZhfJa5_AWDN1D4zDO1nDMqs7gl0UrKpmuCqRYLmA5et08zg/viewform?usp=sf_link0:00 Real People Share Real Experiences of Dorsal Vagal Shutdown (SNB 227)01:00 the Shutdown Experiences Survey02:43 Emotions of Shutdown08:09 Thinking from Shutdown11:30 Sensations of Shutdown14:34 Impulses of Shutdown18:06 What is it like to be in shutdown?20:09 What's the Solution to Shutdown?23:14 OutroResources:🔸 Wondering what to do next? https://bit.ly/4ozbppZ🔸 Stuck Not Broken book series - https://www.justinlmft.com/books🔸 Polyvagal 101 audio series - https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cce134e7-1550-4d33-8e56-738d344c63b0Crisis resources:National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741Call 911 for emergencyThis and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy.  Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship.  Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms.  Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (#99147).Mentioned in this episode:Self-Regulation SimplifiedSelf-Regulation Simplified is a step-by-step, 8-week Polyvagal-informed program for those ready to move beyond frustration and build real, lasting self-regulation skills—together. Learn more about Self-Regulation Simplified - https://www.stucknotbroken.com/self-regulation-simplified