If brain patterns governing muscles can be regenerated and reorganized to create adaptive functions, why couldn’t brain patterns managing behavior or emotions be susceptible to similar rehabilitation methods?

The answer is that they can, in fact, be regenerated and reregulated with the same principles as physical neural rebirthing (neurogenesis) and retraining. Hence the term, psycho-neuroplasticity (PNP), was coined.

The PNP approach is “brain-based” and develops an understanding of the patient through analysis of their thinking and cognitive patterns contributing to the perceptions of their world. It is also essential to understand the patient’s strengths, as these are the basis for change. Whereas in conventional therapy the therapist is focused on the understanding and insight about past events in an attempt to resolve their fixation, the PNP philosophy is based on the way the brain is “wired.” Thus, PNP identifies the strengths of the individual with a plan for future goal attainment through developing skills and retraining the brain.

The PNP approach will be individualistic and specific to the person. The philosophy is broken down into three phases.

The first phase focuses on healing the brain. 

Addiction is toxic and results in the depletion of critical vitamins and nutritional resources. Physical changes to the brain and body are due to poisonous aspects of the drug substances. Also, when there is a lack of restorative sleep, the build up of stress can create psychosis and irregular circadian rhythms. Long-term usage results in unrelenting stress that can lead to adrenal exhaustion and cortisol imbalances with damage to the neural system.

Improving the diet, rebalancing nutrients and metabolism, adding exercise (yoga type), and developing healing breathing patterns are the basic curriculum with alternative methods such as acupuncture, hyperbaric chambers, and massage to release toxins. Similar to the metaphor of an automobile, it is inappropriate to start a long trip if the motor is not running efficiently.

The second phase is strengthening and building brain patterns for healthy functioning. 

The negativity of the psychological perceptions is treated as a toxic leftover from the addiction. Change happens when the patient can focus on his or her strengths or on what is “right” about them, not by focusing on what is “wrong” with them. With the PNP approach, the patient is encouraged to develop a list of strengths they see in themselves. Much of the time therapy starts with reciting these major strengths in order to lay down new brain pathways for positive possibilities. The “negative coach” with negative self-messages, is replaced with a “positive coach” with positive affirmations: “I can do this!” Like any habitual pattern of thinking, new neuronal patterns are built on repetition and require discipline and accountability. The reinforcing element is that the impact of this phase is usually immediate and patient response is very rewarding.

Another principle of PNP is that brain change happens more quickly when it is associated with joy and positive sensory stimuli. Incorporating the senses of smell (olfactory) and sound (auditory) along with relaxation techniques are very powerful in this process. Consequently, it is possible to redirect the patient’s negative attitudes by associating them to these more subconscious avenues for positive possibilities. This process offers learning new ways of coping with stress, depression and anxiety by discovering a positive resolution to present stress-related events. Again, strength builds on strengths and self-confidence is gained.

The third phase of PNP is transpersonal awareness. 

This is similar to the 12 Steps in that the patient practices being in the present and listening to a source of guidance for their lives. Accomplishing this process usually starts by letting go of fear and embracing love and spirituality. In this phase, the PNP principle of learning mindfulness in meditation and breathing (focusing on the present moment with breath) is incorporated to relieve the brain of the stress of the future and release it from the guilt and regret of the past. Providing the patient with a “safe space” for personal exploration often occurs when the patient experiences the results in a sensory deprivation chamber where space and time cease and the immortality of love can be realized.

These PNP phases are not linear in practice, but hopefully this initial explanation offers some logic and reasoning for considering fresh practices within the field of addiction treatment. There will be future blogs to focus on different aspects of this PNP process. This is the beginning of a new and optimistic approach. We look forward to sharing again!

Origins Behavioral Healthcare is a well-known care provider offering a range of treatment programs targeting the recovery from substance use disorders, mental health issues, and beyond. Our primary mission is to provide a clear path to a life of healing and restoration. We offer renowned clinical care for addiction and have the compassion and professional expertise to guide you toward lasting sobriety. For information on our programs, call us today: 561-841-1296