I recently wrote an article a few weeks ago about how to find affordable therapy. This week, I felt it would be helpful to share why and how therapy works. I have seen clients improve and clients have told me that treatment works. Despite this feedback, the experience and outcomes from therapy can often seem mysterious, spiritual, and unexplained.
First, let’s explore the field’s history. The word “psychology” actually means the study of the soul. Along the way, the field decided it would be more beneficial to take a more scientific approach. It began to adopt more behavioral theories and evidence-based treatments.
I think that this quotation below helps to explain the dance and power behind therapy:
“Science investigates; religion interprets. Science gives man knowledge, which is power; religion gives man wisdom, which is control. Science deals mainly with facts; religion deals mainly with values. The two are not rivals.”- Martin Luther King Jr.
The Science Behind Therapy
So yes, therapy is more than just “talking”; it is grounded in science that can rewire the brain, improve emotional regulation, and foster healing relationships.
1. Neuroplasticity: Rewiring the Brain
The brain is essential in all things we do. It has an extraordinary ability called neuroplasticity to form and reorganize neural connections in response to experiences, thoughts, and behaviors. Therapy harnesses this capability to help replace unhelpful patterns with healthier ones.
For example, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a widely studied and effective form of therapy mentioned in a previous blog post, works by identifying and challenging distorted thoughts ( also mentioned in a past blog post). By practicing new ways of thinking and responding, individuals strengthen new neural pathways in their brains. Over time, these healthier thought patterns become automatic, replacing the old ones.
Research Insight: A study that used brain imaging found that CBT can reduce activity in the amygdala (responsible for fear and anxiety) and increase connections in the prefrontal cortex, which supports rational thinking and self-control.
2. Emotional Regulation: The Brain’s Logical vs. Emotional Balance
Emotions like: anxiety, anger, or panic are largely driven by the amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for emotional responses. When we become overwhelmed, the amygdala often takes over, leaving the prefrontal cortex—the brain’s center for logic and reasoning—less active.
Therapy teaches individuals tools like mindfulness, breathing exercises, and cognitive reframing to calm the amygdala and “activate” the prefrontal cortex. This process helps people respond to life’s challenges in a balanced, thoughtful way instead of reacting impulsively.
• Key Fact: Regular therapeutic practices have shown emotional regulation over time, making the brain less reactive to stressors.
3. Attachment and Relationships: The Role of Trust in Healing
Humans are wired for connection, and secure relationships play a critical role in emotional health—a concept explored through attachment theory. The trusting bond between client and therapist (often called the therapeutic alliance) provides a safe space to explore difficult emotions, past wounds, or relationship struggles.
This safe, supportive relationship helps individuals develop new models for connection. Over time, therapy can help reframe how people view themselves and others, fostering healthier relationships outside the therapy room.
• Example: Someone who has experienced inconsistent or harmful relationships in the past may learn, through therapy, how to trust again and set healthy boundaries.
By blending the brain’s capacity for change with emotional insight and relational safety, therapy creates a pathway for profound healing and growth. It’s not magic—it’s science and care working together. ✨
