How does retraining the brain work, enhance therapy’s effects, and reduce stress? (research & theory)
Neuroscience research has shown how our brain can rewire and change itself (the definition of NEUROPLASTICITY). The brain is more malleable than earlier thought. It can learn new patterns of thinking/feeling/reacting as neurons pair, fire together, and create new brain pathways.
This research is excellent news for therapy outcomes and the ability of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients learn better habits and ways to respond to stress. When therapy is successful, new patterns of thinking/feeling/reacting trigger less negativity which in turn results in reduced anxiety and depression.
How can therapy help retrain the brain to reduce stress? (therapy in action)
Have you ever TRIED TO STOP THINKING about something that was making you upset or fight off a deep sadness?
If your answer is yes, as it is for most of us, think about how successful you were in stopping your bad thoughts or fighting off sadness? Were you successful? Did it last? My guess is no.
What I offer is a way out of the struggle with your thoughts and feelings without getting stuck.
In my work with clients, I encourage problem solving to fully live the life you want and not to be stuck in negativity that you don’t want but can’t stop.
Bottom line: Part of our therapy may be practicing the essential tool of LETTING GO of futile struggles!
The process of LETTING GO is not easy for humans! However, it can be freeing and liberating to improve your mood with less time/energy wasted in both negativity and suffering.