Neurobiology and its Applications to Psychotherapy

Applying observations of PTSD to neuroscience research, with implications for psychotherapy

In this presentation, Ruth Lanius outlines an effective combination of therapies for trauma-related disorders that has been successfully piloted at the Traumatic Stress Service in the University of Western Ontario. The study is based on both clinical work and neuro-imaging observations of brain functioning in people with PTSD. The function and anatomy of the intrinsic brain networks (central executive, salience and default-modes) is explained with particular reference to the importance of connections and moving flexibly between these. These key-functions are often impaired in stress-related disorders, particularly to shift from active to resting brain-states. Dr Lanius explains how we can successfully reverse problems with connectivity and thus greatly increase the mental functioning of PTSD patients by offering EEG feedback combined with a range of psychotherapies including DBT, sensorimotor, exposure-based approaches, EMDR, narrative work and cognitive processing therapy.