One of the most powerful and hopeful intersections in modern psychology and biology — using neuroscience to understand and heal trauma. It’s such an empowering field because it combines the cold, hard science of how the brain works with the deeply human experience of pain, survival, and ultimately, recovery. Let’s unpack this a bit together —… Read More Understanding Trauma Through Neuroscience
Hippocampus The hippocampus is a curved, seahorse-shaped structure located in the medial temporal lobe of the brain, within the limbic system. It plays a critical role in memory formation, learning, and spatial navigation. The hippocampus is essential for converting short-term memories into long-term ones, allowing us to retain past experiences. It also helps us recognize environments and navigate through space. Damage… Read More The Brain
Neuroscience has provided valuable insights into the brains of abusers, revealing how their neurological and psychological traits contribute to manipulative, controlling, and harmful behavior. Here’s what research in neuroscience, psychology, and neurobiology suggests about abusers: 1. The Brain Structure of Abusers Neuroimaging studies have found differences in the brains of individuals with narcissistic, antisocial, and… Read More The Brain Structure of Abusers
In cases of abuse or cruelty, the amygdala becomes highly active as it perceives a real and repeated danger. It releases stress hormones (like cortisol) to prepare us for a “fight, flight, or freeze” response. If someone we once loved becomes a source of pain or threat, our brain’s survival mechanisms kick in, aiming to protect us from that person by associating them with negative emotions instead. This reprogramming is essentially a survival adaptation.… Read More The transition from love to hate after abuse
fMRI can detect functional changes in the brain related to drug-induced damage, particularly in regions involved in cognition, emotion, and reward processing. While it provides valuable insights into how drugs affect brain activity, it is not typically used as a stand-alone diagnostic tool. Rather, it is often combined with other imaging techniques, clinical assessments, and neuropsychological evaluations to get a full picture of the brain damage and cognitive impairments caused by drug use.… Read More Drug-induced brain damage
The mind of a healthy person, from a neuroscience perspective, is characterized by the optimal functioning and integration of various brain regions and networks. This allows for balanced emotional regulation, effective decision-making, empathy, social interaction, and overall mental well-being. While there is no single “ideal” brain state, as individual variability is considerable, certain neural patterns and structures are commonly associated with mental health and well-being.… Read More Health Happy Brain
Criminal minds have been a subject of intense study in neuroscience, particularly in understanding how they differ from non-criminal minds. Neuroscience provides insights into the brain structures, functions, and neurochemical processes that might contribute to criminal behavior. While it’s important to remember that no single factor can explain criminality—it’s often a complex interplay of biology, environment, and individual psychology—there are some key differences observed in the brains of individuals who engage in criminal behavior.… Read More Criminal Minds
A groundbreaking study has unveiled the crucial role of the TRPC5 gene in the brain’s reward pathways, specifically its impact on oxytocin neurons—nerve cells responsible for producing oxytocin, the so-called ‘love hormone.’ This discovery is a significant step forward in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying mental health disorders and could lead to the development of more targeted and effective treatments.… Read More Unveiling the Role of TRPC5 in Oxytocin Neurons:
A Lifelong Commitment to Learning: My journey of exploring neuroplasticity is not confined to the walls of a classroom or the pages of a textbook—it’s a lifelong commitment to learning, growth, and self-improvement. Every day presents an opportunity to expand my understanding, challenge my assumptions, and integrate new insights into my practice and personal life. Whether through reading research papers, attending seminars, or engaging in hands-on experiences, I embrace each opportunity to deepen my knowledge and broaden my perspective.… Read More A Continuous Journey of Learning: Embracing Neuroplasticity and Lifelong Growth
Neuroscience is the multidisciplinary study of the nervous system, encompassing the brain, spinal cord, and networks of neurons that facilitate communication throughout the body. It explores the intricate mechanisms that govern brain function, including how neurons communicate, how the brain processes information, and how it influences behavior and cognition. In the realm of mental health,… Read More “Unraveling Mental Health: The Neuroscientific Insights and Advances in Understanding the Brain-Mind Connection”
Linda C J Turner | Trauma Therapist & Emotional Healing Specialist 