What is neuroaffective psychotherapy?

Neuroaffective development theory is a theoretical understanding framework and research-based method (Susan Hart and Marianne Bentzen) to understand human emotional, personality and social development and how we develop coping and self-regulation skills in relation to temperament, emotions and mood.

The theoretical starting point builds a bridge between attachment theory, developmental psychology, trauma theory and recent brain research.

Neuroaffective psychotherapy: with the relationship at the center

It also points to how, through a secure relationship, one can process early traumas, and organize interventions based on the closest emotional development zone to develop emotional and relational abilities and psychological resilience, regardless of age and status.

Three-level maturation: developing resilience

Neuroaffective maturation takes place on three hierarchically connected levels, the autonomic level which matures through body sensation and synchronizing arousal regulation, the limbic level which matures through emotional attunement and the prefrontal level which matures through mentalisation.

When all three levels have developed flexibility and are integrated, so-called development is achieved psychological resilience.

If you are wondering whether this approach might be something for you, or if you have any questions, feel free to contact us via contact form.