Background Polarisation of biological and psychosocial aspects of psychiatr
y has promoted a form of Cartesian dualism. Current knowledge of the intera
ction between biology and psychology makes it possible to consider a truly
integrative approach to treatment.
Aims The aim of this overview is to consider conceptual models of how psych
otherapy may affect the brain.
Method The literature discussing the mutual influence of genes and environ
ment is surveyed. Relevant data involving the influence of psychotherapy on
the brain are also reviewed.
Results Research findings suggest that the brain responds to environmental
influence through the alteration of gene expression; that psychotherapy has
specific measurable effects on the brain; and that implicit memory may be
modified by psychotherapeutic interventions.
Conclusions Advances in neuroscience research have led to a more sophistica
ted understanding of how psychotherapy may affect brain functioning. These
developments point the way towards a new era of psychotherapy research and
practice in which specific modes of psychotherapy can be designed to target
specific sites of brain functioning
Declaration of interest This work was funded by the Callaway Professorship
of the Menninger Clinic.