The Toolbox at LisaKiftTherapy.com

The second of our peer psychotherapy consultation group happened this morning which was again fabulous.  I am so grateful to have found a small group of women such as these – led by such an intelligent and wise soul in Linda Graham (who by the way had an article published in Psychotherapy Networker in November called, A Warm Bath for the Brain where she speaks to therapists about the role of oxytocin in therapeutic change).

Our routine is to check in, discuss the chapters of the book we’ve been assigned to read (Being a Brain-Wise Therapistby Bonnie Badenoch) then discuss client cases whether it be for support or to explore countertransference issues.  A lot was brought into the room today.  It is clear by the personal content brought forth by all of us that the safety level amongst us is steeply rising. 

Here are some of the neuroscience ”nuggets” that came out of today’s meeting:

• The more resiliant experiences we have, the more effectively we can counter the 24 hour alarm system that is the amygdala when we’re triggered.
• Educating clients about the role of implicit memories (not in conscious awareness but still impacting behavior) in putting them “offline” or in an emotionally reactive state  -  helps them to understand it’s not their fault – and reduces self blame.
• The work of therapy is to help people integrate and process the flow of information from the from the amygdala (the emotionally reactive alarm center) to the prefrontal cortex which orchestrates thoughts and actions.
• We are born without our neurons connected – and they do so in the first two years of life via experience, particularly relational.
• Caring and empathy in relationships rewires the brain.
• People can learn to call on their own resources (mindfulness, etc) to rewire their brains as well.

We have been assigned to read chapters four and five for next month’s meeting.  As always, I invite dialogue about any of the points above.  I am in no way an expert in this field but just enthusiastic about learning more – and spreading the word.  

If any therapists who do know something about this subject would like to share their information “nuggets,” all the better!  Insights and links to additional resources are all welcome on the comment form below.

Lastly, check the “notify me of new comments” to be kept in the loop.

See the previous session: 

The Therapist Consultation Room: Attachment and Neuroscence

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Lisa Brookes Kift is a psychotherapist and creator of Notes from a Therapist’s Chair: The Therapy and Counseling Blog; a feature of The Toolbox at LisaKiftTherapy.com.

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