Synapses can be modified by a wide variety of environmental factors, including learning and memory processes which form part of psychotherapy. Brain growth and differentiation are not only caused genetically but also take place when constantly interacting with the environment. Brain growth does not end in childhood; there is lifelong redistribution of cortical networks depending on individual experience. New neurons are created in the hippocampus. It has been shown that therapeutic processes activate specific brain areas associated with emotional behaviour. Neuroplasticity is a precondition for any change in behaviour, cognition and emotion. Contemporary neuroscience and psychotherapy have entered a new stage in their relationship.
With growing sophistication in methods, neuroscience has started to identify correlates not only for mental disorders, but also for therapeutic changes. Rebuilding the human brain is a challenge. The interaction between neuroscience and psychotherapy holds interesting prospects for the future. Neuroscience holds great potential and additional value for improving psychotherapeutic practice if applied properly.