The Cognitive Neuroscience of Psychological Treatment Action in Depression and Anxiety

AbstractPurpose of ReviewPsychological treatments for anxiety and depression are not universally effective, with many individuals continuing to experience symptoms after treatment. A better understanding of how these treatments work has the potential to inform treatment development and optimization. Neuroimaging studies provide one level of analysis to investigate mechanisms of treatment action. Here, we review recent studies using this approach to assess mechanisms of psychological treatments.Recent FindingsCognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety and depression was associated with changes in activation of amygdala, ACC, and medial/inferior prefrontal cortices. Changes in connectivity between amygdala and prefrontal cortical regions were also demonstrated highlighting a role for altered functioning of neural circuitry implicated in emotion regulation.SummaryGreater concordance between neuroscience and clinical researchers would allow more focused investigation of treatment-specific and treatment-general mechanisms. More standardization in study design would facilitate the ability to compare effects across studies.
Source: Current Behavioral Neuroscience Reports - Category: Neuroscience Source Type: research