Psychotherapy and neuroscience: the neuroscience-oriented strategic model and the mind-body method

Abstract

In this paper we illustrate an innovative and effective model called Neuroscientific Strategic Psychotherapy. This model originates from the combination of integrative-strategic and psychosocial and cultural genomics approaches in psychotherapy.  From a holistic perspective of human functioning, we integrated modern neuroscientific findings in psychotherapy and genomics thus developing a therapeutic protocol called the Mind-Body Transformations Therapy.  We also developed an interdisciplinary research method that aims to investigate the translational mechanisms which have shown interesting connections between mind-body interventions and the immune system.  Mind-body interventions have proven to be effective in reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory genes associated with stress.  In line with these studies, our research team has explored the genomic-molecular basis of our protocol by means of bioinformatic software and DNA microarray.  After a single session of Mind-Body Transformations Therapy, we found patterns of experience-dependent gene expression that are associated with stem cell activation, and a reduction of inflammation, cell stress and epigenetic variations.  Along this line of research, we are implementing the Psychosocial Genomics Research Program in Oncology.  This program aims to evaluate the effects of the Mind-Body Transformations Therapy on cancer patients.  Through the study of human genome, we also aim to understand the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effectiveness of our protocol.  From the clinical and empirical results we have obtained so far, we can state that combining strategic psychotherapy with neuroscientific findings has allowed us to develop an evidence-based model that facilitates mind-body healing and helps the treatment of several mental and psychosomatic conditions.