Change Quote by Norman Doidge
““Kandel argues that when psychotherapy changes people, 'it presumably does so through learning, by producing changes in gene expression that alter the strength of synaptic connections, and structural changes that alter the anatomical pattern of interconnections between nerve cells of the brain.' Psychotherapy works by going deep into the brain and its neurons and changing their structure by turning on the right genes. Psychiatrist Dr. Susan Vaughan has argued that the talking cure works by 'talking to neurons,' and that an effective psychotherpist or psychoanalyst is a 'microsurgeon of the mind' who helps patients make needed alterations in neuronal networks.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge, 2007
Psychotherapy reshapes the brain by altering gene expression and synaptic structures, effectively rewiring neural networks through learning.
In simple terms: Therapy changes brain wiring via learning and gene activity.
Key Takeaway
Therapy can rewire the mind.
Themes
neuroscience
psychotherapy
plasticity
Mood
hopeful
analytical
Type
educational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- depression treatment
- trauma recovery
- habit change
- skill acquisition
Key Concepts
gene expression
synaptic strength
neural remodeling
Questions to Reflect On
- How does learning translate to neural change?
- What role does therapist guidance play?
A Different Perspective
Changes depend on patient engagement and therapist skill.
