top of page

Placeholder

placeholder

Brain-Based Therapy: Key Concepts for Managing Stress, Anxiety, and PTSD

1. Neuroplasticity

  • The brain can change and “rewire” itself for positive growth.

  • Hebb’s Law: “Neurons that fire together, wire together,” meaning focused effort and attention can create new neural pathways.

2. The Brain’s Response to Stress

  • The Amygdala Hijack: Triggers the “low road” fast-track response, bypassing logical thinking for survival instincts (freeze, fight, flight).

  • Chronic stress impacts the brain, leading to overactivation of the amygdala and atrophy of the hippocampus, which affects memory and emotional regulation.

3. Polyvagal Theory & Self-Regulation

  • The vagus nerve regulates the nervous system.

  • Activating the “smart vagus” (ventral vagus) through breathing, mindfulness, and social connection promotes calm and reduces stress.

4. Practical Techniques to Calm the Brain

  • Breathing Exercises: Focused breathing (e.g., diaphragmatic breathing, Ujjayi breath) stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system to calm the body.

  • Bilateral Stimulation: Eye movements, tapping, or crossing the midline can help integrate brain function and reduce anxiety.

  • Mindfulness: Cultivate awareness to create space between stimulus and response, promoting emotional regulation.

  • Heart Coherence: Focus on breathing from the heart to synchronize mind-body relaxation.

Explore the full guide to learn about how these techniques and brain science can enhance mental health. [Download the full PDF here].

Phil Harford, LICSW

65 Newmarket Rd Suite C

Durham, NH 03824

(603) 815-2817

Phil Harford, LICSW is commited to creating an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful space for all.  He does not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability.  While he can't always accommodate everyone who seeks services, he strives to treat everyone with dignity, compassion, and respect.  Phil gratefully acknowledges the Pennacook of the Wabanaki confederation on whose ancestral homelands we live and work.  
bottom of page