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Science behind therapy and psychotherapy - Does therapy really work?

Writer's picture: Konrad A. KociszewskiKonrad A. Kociszewski

Have you ever doubted therapy's effectiveness? Let's determine if therapy is an evidence-based and scientifically grounded treatment method.


Is therapy an evidence-based and scientific method of treatment?


What's the science behind therapy? Psychotherapy is a scientifically grounded and evidence-based approach to treating mental health conditions. However, societal attitudes, stereotypes, and misconceptions can contribute to the perception that psychotherapy is not as valid or scientific as physical medical treatments. Increased education, open dialogue, and continued research contribute to changing these perceptions and highlighting the importance of psychotherapy in promoting mental and emotional well-being. In addition to increasing awareness and accessibility of therapy, scientists conduct trials and research to prove therapy effectiveness. Several scientific explorations showed therapy's impact on the human brain, neurotransmitters, and overall health. Let's unpack therapy and find out if and why it is working. Therapy is not a "one size fits all" solution. There are various evidence-based and empirically proven therapy approaches and cognitive tools designed to regain balance, cope better, and recover from mental disorders. It is crucial to note that therapy is an umbrella term referring to various approaches and treatments for people struggling with a broad spectrum of mental issues. For individuals struggling with overwhelming, everyday stress, and clinical mental illnesses, may benefit from therapy.


Science behind therapy: Why do people doubt therapy as an evidence-based and scientifically-relevant treatment method?


While psychotherapy is widely recognized as an evidence-based and scientific method for treating mental health issues, there can be varying perceptions and misconceptions about its effectiveness compared to physical medical treatments. Some of those harmful misconceptions come from mental health double standards. Some people still believe that mental health recovery depends on the patient's goodwill, strength, and motivation. No one ever said, "Have you at least tried not to have cancer?" to a physically sick person. Sadly, some people still think that people struggling with mental illness can stop being "weak" and ill so they don't need any kind of treatment. This is a very dangerous myth that prevents people from asking for help. Mental health myths and misconceptions are strong in some societies, but there are more concerns and doubts about therapy.


Sometimes, the scientific foundation of therapy is questioned, although therapy is grounded in science, and numerous studies have demonstrated its effectiveness for a range of mental health conditions. Various therapeutic approaches have substantial empirical support, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy. The American Psychological Association (APA) and other professional organizations endorse psychotherapy as a valid and evidence-based treatment. Research continually informs and refines therapeutic techniques, contributing to the scientific evolution of psychotherapy. Therapy alone can be an effective treatment for mental illness, but it can be combined with medication. It is a mistake to treat therapy as a less effective replacement for pharmacological treatment.


Psychotherapy is often integrated with medical treatments for mental health issues. It complements psychiatric medications, and the combination of therapy and medication has been shown to be effective in many cases. Integrating psychotherapy and medical treatments reflects a holistic approach to healthcare, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental and physical well-being. Outcomes in psychotherapy can be more subjective and complex to measure compared to some physical medical treatments. However, advancements in research methodologies, including standardized assessments and outcome measures, contribute to a more rigorous evaluation of psychotherapeutic interventions.

A holistic approach to human health - Does mental health affect physical well-being?


How do mental health issues influence the overall human condition?


The relationship between mental and physical health is complex, inextricable, and bidirectional, meaning one can influence the other. This interconnection is often referred to as the mind-body connection. Here are several ways in which mental health is linked to physical health and how therapy can influence physical well-being in the following ways:

  • Chronic stress can contribute to the development or exacerbation of mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. Prolonged stress can also lead to physical health problems, including cardiovascular issues, immune system suppression, and digestive problems.

  • Behavioral factors impact both mental and physical health. Mental health conditions may influence behavior, leading to unhealthy habits such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and substance abuse. Unhealthy behaviors can contribute to physical health issues like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

  • Mental health conditions, especially chronic stress, can affect immune system function. Weakened immune function may make individuals more susceptible to infections and other illnesses.

  • Conditions like depression and chronic stress have been associated with increased inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to a range of physical health problems, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.

  • Mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can contribute to sleep disturbances. Inadequate sleep is associated with a higher risk of various physical health issues, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and impaired immune function.

  • Proper neurotransmitter functions are crucial for the body as imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, are implicated in mental health conditions. These neurotransmitters also play a role in regulating various bodily functions, and imbalances may affect physical health.

  • Mental health conditions are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, including hypertension and heart disease.

  • Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may be exacerbated by stress and anxiety.

  • Mental health issues can contribute to the perception and intensity of pain conditions such as migraines or chronic pain syndromes. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is tailored for clients suffering from chronic pain; it helps them feel relieved, accept chronic conditions, and manage hard feelings related to pain and suffering.

Mental health therapies enrich other fields of medicine and diagnosis. Early diagnosis of mental conditions may decrease the number of medical interventions. Mental disorders may be dangerous and even fatal. Therapy may be a life-saving treatment in various meanings. Psychological and physical health are intricately connected, and the impact of mental health on physical well-being is well-established. Therapy can play a vital role in addressing mental health concerns, leading to positive changes in behavior, emotional regulation, and stress management, which, in turn, can contribute to improved physical health. Mental well-being may influence various systems in the human body, but it affects the brain the most. Neuroscience pays more attention than ever to therapy's impact on the human brain areas and processes into the brain.


Neuroscience behind therapy


Neuroscience has made significant contributions to our understanding of how therapy, particularly psychotherapy, can influence the brain and contribute to mental health. Here are some key insights from neuroscience regarding the impact of therapy:


Neuroplasticity: One of the fundamental principles highlighted by neuroscience is neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize and adapt by forming new neural connections. Therapy has been shown to induce structural and functional changes in the brain, particularly in regions associated with emotional regulation, memory, and cognitive processing.


Brain changes in response to therapy: Studies using neuroimaging techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) have demonstrated alterations in brain activity and connectivity in individuals undergoing psychotherapy. For example, changes in the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus have been observed, reflecting improved emotional regulation and memory processing.


Effects on stress response: Therapy can modulate the brain's stress response. Chronic stress can lead to structural changes in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus, which plays a role in memory and emotional regulation. Specific therapeutic approaches, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), have been associated with changes in stress-related brain structures.


Regulation of emotions: Emotion regulation is a crucial focus of many therapeutic interventions. Neuroscientific research suggests that therapy can influence the brain's emotional processing centers, including the amygdala and insula. Successful emotion regulation is associated with changes in these regions.


Impact on neurotransmitters: Therapy can influence neurotransmitter systems in the brain. For example, some studies suggest that psychotherapy may lead to changes in serotonin and dopamine levels, neurotransmitters associated with mood regulation and pleasure.


Mindfulness and neural changes: Mindfulness-based interventions, often incorporated into various therapeutic approaches, have been linked to changes in brain regions involved in attention, self-awareness, and emotional regulation. Mindfulness practice has been associated with alterations in the structure and function of the brain.


Enhanced connectivity: Therapeutic interventions can promote enhanced connectivity between different brain regions. For instance, increased connectivity between the prefrontal cortex and limbic system (which includes the amygdala) is associated with improved emotional regulation.


Long-term effects: The effects of therapy on the brain are not only observed during the intervention but can also have enduring effects. Longitudinal studies suggest that positive changes in brain structure and function can persist after the completion of therapy.


It's important to note that while neuroscience provides valuable insights into the neural mechanisms underlying therapy, the field is still evolving. The complex nature of the brain and individual differences make it challenging to pinpoint specific mechanisms for every therapeutic approach or individual. Nonetheless, the integration of neuroscience with psychology has significantly enriched our understanding of how therapy can impact the brain and contribute to mental well-being.


Is therapy working for me? How to evaluate therapy effectiveness?


Evaluating the effectiveness of therapy is a personal and subjective process, and it's expected to wonder whether therapy is working for you. The key elements of therapy effectiveness and good outcomes are the client-therapist relationship, mutual motivation, relevant, specific, achievable goals, appropriate diagnosis and addressing issues, and a well-fitted therapeutic approach. Learn more about therapy's effectiveness, measurements, and evaluation process in the next article! You will learn the signs that the therapy works well for you. You will also explore other options and know what to do if the therapy does not bring results.


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