Few thoughts about neuro-plasticity:

- Therapists imply in a vague way they can “use” NP to heal people. In other words they will engineer a healing relationship. The client must look the other way, when confronted with the possibility that their healing is supposed to come from the simulated emotions of the therapist.

- They also imply they can use NP in a controlled way. NP is a two way street. What can help can also harm. Psych biz avoids discussing that. At best, the therapist is experimenting in uncontrolled fashion with the client’s brain health.

- All social interactions involve power dynamics and social status that affect brain plasticity. Therapy, in my view, is heavily loaded in favor of therapist power and client powerlessness. The client faces an uphill battle, having entered into a pre-ordained hierachy. Seems more likely to recapitulate past social defeats than counter them.

- I can’t imagine any greater threat to brain health with respect to social status, than ostracization or rejection in the context of a power-driven and symbolic realtionship. And since therapy clients can easily be terminated if they don't conform, seems inordinately risky.

- Clients can experience loss of control once feelings of dependency set in. Loss of control, in relationships or in healthcare, correlates with higher stress levels, and increased stress correlates with deteriorating health and breakdown of the physical body (including the brain).

- The healthiest thing for me was to get away from an infantilizing guru-disciple, mommy-baby, superior-inferior arrangement and take back control. Taking back power and control is a reliable predictor of improved brain health.