Learning

Since I began studying neuroscience over two decades ago, scientists have uncovered an overwhelming amount of new information about how the human brain works. I could ramble on forever (and sometimes do) about our miraculous brains, but here’s a couple of interesting things we’ve learned fairly recently:

  • We’ve known for years that our development is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. But we now know that our gene expression is constantly influenced, on a molecular level, by environmental factors – everything from our prenatal environment to the air we breathe to the songs we hear on the radio. This branch of psychology is known as epigenetics.
  • We also now know that our intestines are full of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, both of which play a crucial role in our emotional experiences. When you think about having a “gut instinct” or try to “listen to your gut,” you are experiencing the sensation of your “second brain” – your actual gut.
  • Neuronal connections are created throughout our lives; nothing is static. Change is difficult; excruciating at times. But it is also an inevitable part of life – and we can use that knowledge for good.

In the rest of this section, you’ll find articles I dug up online that I believe may be helpful for curious clients and/or their families. When I seek out such articles, I ensure they come from reputable sources that I’m familiar with (the names of which are included with each article).

I always welcome feedback with regards to the content of this section. If you’re interested in learning about a particular condition or some relevant neurobiology that isn’t included, please let me know and I’ll do my best to find the answers.

The Brain:

Psychotherapy:

Mindfulness:

Biofeedback:

Expressive Arts:

Eating Disorders:

Substance Use Disorders and Addiction: