Join us in this special 2-hour edition of the Embodied Dialogue Series for an enlightening exploration of how Polyvagal Theory and Twelve-step Programs can intersect to enhance addiction treatment. Since the 1930s, Twelve-step Programs have been a cornerstone in helping millions overcome addictive behaviors through accessible, global support groups rooted in the concept of a ‘higher power.’ Founded by Bill Wilson and Bob Smith, these programs view addiction as a brain disease and emphasize community and spiritual connection.

Polyvagal Theory, introduced by neuroscientist Stephen Porges in 1994, offers a fresh perspective by framing addictions as adaptive survival strategies linked to the autonomic nervous system’s regulation of emotional states. This approach highlights how trauma influences our nervous system responses, providing new insights into why individuals might engage in addictive behaviors.

In this event, we will discuss how these differing views can inform one another. What can the Twelve Steps learn from Polyvagal Theory’s focus on physiological triggers and trauma? How can Polyvagal-informed approaches benefit from the long-standing community and spiritual support of Twelve-step Programs?

Join us as we delve into these questions and work together to reshape the conversation around addiction treatment, emphasizing safety and emotional regulation in recovery.

About Patrick, Elizabeth, Robert and Ann

Patrick McA is a long-term 12 Step practitioner whose personal journey of healing from alcoholism and drug addiction has inspired a passionate commitment to supporting others in recovery. As the founder of Friendly Circle Berlin, Patrick collaborates with dedicated members of the recovery community and professionals with lived experience who freely contribute their time and wisdom. Together, we provide free weekly online workshops and peer support meetings to the global recovery community, focusing on emotional sobriety and trauma-informed practices.

Through creating safe, caring environments that nurture authentic connection, this community of volunteers has built a vibrant global network where individuals can explore their recovery journey together. The Recovery Reimagined conference, holding its second annual gathering at Trinity College Dublin in May 2025, embodies this commitment to trauma-informed, community-centered healing. Drawing on the collective wisdom of diverse voices in recovery for collaborative learning and growth, the conference continues the mission of making recovery support both accessible and innovative while addressing the perennial challenges that individuals face on their path to healing.

Elizabeth Moitoza earned her MSW from Boston College in 1980 and has dedicated her career to supporting clients while continuously pursuing her own professional development. With extensive experience in family and couples therapy, she is certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy and has worked with many couples facing challenges. Additionally, Elizabeth has trained in Internal Family Systems and EMDR to help clients dealing with trauma. Her personal journey includes years of 12-step recovery, which deepened her understanding of addiction. Motivated to enhance her skills in trauma and addiction treatment, she began training with Jan Winhall and was inspired by Winhall’s work on the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model, finding the focus on the nervous system and body essential for healing. Elizabeth is a certified Felt Sense Polyvagal Model Facilitator and member of Jan’s teaching team.

Born into an alcoholic family in 1949, Robert Ragucci began his recovery from codependency in 1984 after hearing Claudia Black speak about Adult Children of Alcoholics. His personal recovery program includes group, couple, and individual therapies, alongside participation in Twelve Step programs and spiritual communities from both Christian and Buddhist traditions.

Robert became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in 2000, specializing in Addiction and Recovery. He served as a Drug Counselor for Options Recovery Services for 16 years, teaching classes on Terence Gorski’s Denial Management, Stephanie Brown’s Developmental Model of Recovery, Prochaska’s Stages and Processes of Change, and Meditation. For the past 10 years, he has been a student of spiritual teacher Thomas Huebl.

Robert has spent the past three years studying Jan Winhall’s Felt Sense Polyvagal Model and is now a certified FSPM Facilitator and Focusing Trainer. He is credited with discovering the fourth circle in Jan’s Four Circles model. Additionally, Robert is a Safe and Sound Protocol Provider and is currently pursuing certification as a Rest and Recover Protocol Provider.

Over a year ago, he began an accountability partnership with Elizabeth Moitoza, a transformative experience that highlighted the value of having an accountability partner. Together, they regularly practice the Felt Sense Grounding Exercise, the Seven F’s, the Four Circles, and Focusing. As their intimacy and trust grow, they explore the depths of trauma, addiction, and grief alongside the uplifting aspects of embodied connection and purposeful action.

Ann Dowsett Johnston is an award-winning journalist and best-selling author of the acclaimed book “Drink: The Intimate Relationship Between Women and Alcohol.” The book explores the intricate dynamics between women and alcohol consumption, combining personal narrative with rigorous research. Her TEDx Talk on Women and Drinking has resonated with over 1.5 million viewers worldwide. Ann is dedicated to addressing mental health and addiction issues with a focus on destigmatizing these challenges.

Ann’s career spans over 25 years at Maclean’s magazine, where she played a pivotal role as the chief architect of the Maclean’s university rankings and contributed to insightful columns on modern life. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including an honorary Doctor of Laws from Queen’s University and several awards recognizing her efforts in mental health advocacy.

In 2017, Ann pursued her passion for psychotherapy by enrolling in the Master’s of Social Work program at Smith College. During her internships, Ann worked at the Jean Tweed Centre in Toronto, and with psychotherapist Jan Winhall. She has since been actively practicing as a registered social worker in Toronto. Ann continues to write and is currently working on her second book.