Integrating Resiliency Into Neurobiologically-Focused Mental Health Counseling Through Mindfulness

Abstract

ABSTRACT The traumatized client may enter the mental health counseling suffering from the neurobiological effects of psychological trauma. This exposure has a detrimental impact on the brain’s functioning levels and functional connectivity of the white matter that runs between the frontal lobe, and the striatal areas of the brain, and altering the homeostasis of the client’s physical body through symptoms of anxiety. The stress causes the body to activate its survival mechanisms and may lead to acute stress responses or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptomology. We examine the concepts and techniques of mindfulness as a clinically sound approach for relieving and reducing the long-term negative effects of this activation of this neurologically focused survival mechanism. This article explores approaches to building resiliency through enhancing neuroplasticity and examining how neuronal activation may alter the neurophysiological response to stress. Coupling this, specific mindfulness activities will be reviewed for effectiveness.