Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB)

The interdisciplinary field of IPNB (developed by Dr. Dan Siegel) is lending tremendous insight into the world of psychotherapy. An effective tool in treating individuals with past trauma. At its core, IPNB posits that we are who we are because of our relationships. Further, this approach also looks at brain chemistry and the function and development of neuro-pathways that are constantly rewiring themselves, known as neuro-plasticity. Scientifically speaking (and proven), our relationships change our brains - particularly the most intimate ones, like with our primary caregivers, siblings or romantic partners. IPNB holds that the brain is constantly changing and being reshaped by our relationships. 

The goals of IPNB based therapy are to foster neuro-plasticity. In order to achieve this, four common factors must be present in therapy:

1. Establishing a safe and secure relationship with the therapist - learning and change can only take place in a "safety state"

2. Mild to moderate stress -  some stress fosters plasticity and is necessary when exploring painful experiences, but beyond a certain threshold the systems in the brain that control change and learning shut down.

3. Activation of left and right brain - integrating the left (cognition) brain and right (emotional) brain systems while revisiting memories and forming our narrative. 

4. Creating a new adaptive personal story - effective therapy creates a story that includes what went wrong and an explanation of what you have to do to correct it and move towards health.