Did you know that individuals can intentionally influence and change the structure and function of their brain? YES, YOU CAN! This superpower is called self-directed neuroplasticity, and it can be achieved at any age. It’s possible through focused effort, environmental enrichment, physical activity, and consistent learning to build new neural pathways and strengthen existing ones. The brain is constantly adapting and rewiring itself in response to experiences, thoughts, and behaviors. According to Good Neuroscience, “Neuroplasticity is always active. Every routine, thought, or action you repeat is a small investment in the brain you’ll have tomorrow.”
Our brains are actively built throughout our lives. While genetics provide a basic blueprint for the brain, environmental experiences shape and build connections in response to outside connections. Each time an individual repeats thoughts and experiences, it strengthens the neural connections and pathways in the brain. This process is often described as, “neurons that fire together, wire together.” Imagine building new roadways in your brain!
While neuroplasticity can be a great thing, it’s not beneficial when it results in the brain rewiring itself in harmful ways. For example, unhealthy thinking patterns, bad habits, trauma, or worsening of anxiety— to name a few. If you have maladaptive patterns that interfere with your daily functioning, counseling is an option to help.
Weekly counseling sessions can facilitate and accelerate self-directed neuroplasticity. At A Little Counseling, our program centers around rewiring the brain with continued weekly practice of skills—just as you would at the gym or with a sport. Our therapists use evidence-based treatment methods to promote the formation of new neural pathways, provide a space for repetition of skills to strengthen neural circuits, and help increase self-awareness of unproductive thinking patterns/behaviors in an effort to redirect focus and create new pathways. They provide a space to work on new emotional experiences in a safe environment, and can help maintain progress & accountability. We are like personal trainers for your mind!
Knowing that your brain can rewire over time is a game changer that helps people lean into and face challenges rather than avoiding them. It’s truly remarkable what the brain can do---AND UNDO! So, if you are ready to put in the work and give us some brain repetitions—we’ll help with the rest. At A Little Counseling new pathways are included 😉
