What Exactly is Neuroscience?

Our guest writer-in-residence Briana Cowles answers the questions about Neuroscience. Briana is a Neuroscience major from the University of Georgia. 

Neuroscience is a scientific discipline concerned with the structure and function of not only the brain, but the entire nervous system.

We study it's development from a fetal stage through senescence, and the numerous disorders and traumas that can impact its typical functioning. Examples can include: CNS Lymphoma, Meningitis, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, and Alzheimer's.  

We strive to understand the nervous system as a whole, from the biological composition and function of the many different types of neurons and neural circuits, to brain structure and its impact on behavior and cognitive functions. 

Ultimately, neuroscience research provides an important biological foundation for understanding the impact of the work of mental health professionals.  

Interviewing and counseling produces changes in client memory, as learning and new ideas are being constructed within the lesson.  All mental health professionals should continue learning as they continue practicing- particularly in regard to brain structures and functions because new findings may continue to provide support for their work, and outline specific guidelines for practice.  

Neuroscience is not in opposition to the many benefits of cognitive, behavioral, and emotional emphasis of counseling.  Conversely, it helps pinpoint types of interventions that are most beneficial to the client.  

The integration of counseling, psychotherapy, neuroscience, and neuroimaging into practice, training, and research should be supported by all mental health professionals.

Read More Research from Briana Cowles:

See The Effects of Chronic Illness on Couples by Briana Cowles Writer-in-Residence

See The Philosophy of Change in the Family Systems for Family Therapy by Briana Cowles.