The Transparent Brain in Couple and Family Therapy

Why should family therapists care about brain research? Are there invisible connections between the breakdown of our relationships and the breakdown of our cells? To answer these questions, author Suzanne Hanna paints pictures of ancient principles coming together with contemporary research as a context for why basic concepts of neuroscience are relevant to couple and family therapy. She illustrates the reciprocal nature of the body and relationships in a book that simplifies and demystifies brain science for therapists.

Key Features

• 6 brain-friendly family therapy approaches
• Concept of biological empathy
• Client-friendly language that allows busy therapists to educate without jargon
• Applications of family therapy begin with the self of the therapist and advance through interpersonal layers of attachment, pair-bonding, and community
• Chapters include topics on:
  • Whole body awareness
  • A narrative approach to neuroanatomy and physiology
  • 5 basic principles of neuroscience
  • Basics of trauma treatment
  • Male/female brain differences in couples therapy
  • The ancient concept of tribe and a community frontal lobe
• Each chapter summarises with principles and guidelines for clinicians
• Numerous illustrations make the brain transparent, while surveys, worksheets, and tables make the therapeutic process transparent
• The last chapter illustrates concepts and interventions through a full-length case story and applies addiction treatment as a case study for program development
• Includes case examples from all walks of life, highlighting heroic acts of survival

Additional Information

This analysis enables practitioners to harness the power of mindfulness toward brain development and interpersonal healing. Clinicians can use 5 basic principles of neuroscience to bring relief more quickly.