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12. When Your Own Nervous System Enters the Chat: Polyvagal Theory for Dietitians
Manage episode 485453007 series 3645697
In this episode, we shift the spotlight from client to clinician—and talk all things nervous system from the provider's perspective. If you’ve ever left a session feeling fried, frozen, or like you were faking calm, you’re not alone. Bethany and Danielle dig into how the nervous system shows up during client care, why regulation isn't about perfection, and how polyvagal theory can help you build nervous system flexibility—not just for your clients, but for yourself. Whether you’re a new RD navigating tough sessions or a seasoned dietitian noticing your own activation creeping in, this episode offers practical insights, validation, and a few laughs along the way. Learn what “nervous system literacy” really means and walk away with tools to stay grounded, present, and effective—no matter what the session throws your way.
🎧 Tap play to learn how your own regulation is a powerful tool for client care.
*This content represents the opinions of the consultant. It carries no endorsement by their employers.*
Resources mentioned this episode:
[FREE DOWNLOAD] Nervous System 101 for Dietitians
Have a question or an idea for a topic you'd like to hear us discuss? Email us at [email protected]
About the co-hosts:
Bethany Wheeler and Danielle Southern are both weight-inclusive registered dietitians in outpatient settings and each own a private nutrition therapy practice. They have known each other since 2012 when Danielle reached out to Bethany for guidance on how to become a registered dietitian herself. Since then, Bethany has mentored Danielle through her entire journey to become a dietitian. They both know and value the importance of registered dietitians having professional support and mentorship in their career and want to help make the journey for future dietitians a bit easier and more successful. Each week they will be taking on a topic that dietitians don't traditionally learn about in their university programs or internships, but is essential to a career as a dietitian. In other words, they'll be talking about all the stuff you wish you would have learned in school/internship, but didn't.
The MENTORD Podcast [NEW Website]
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