Neurobiology of Stress-Informed Counseling

Recognizing that we are constantly exposed to stressors in our day-to-day lives, Neurobiology of Stress-Informed Counseling: Healing and Prevention Practices for the Helping Professions introduces readers to a variety of ways of conceptualizing stress that are supported by anecdotal and empirical evidence. It invites readers to explore scenarios in which both positive and negative stress can influence human function, as well as practices that can help alleviate the harmful effect of stress on human development and health. The book emphasizes the significance of preventative actions and practices that may curtail the sources of negative stress at varying levels, equipping helping professionals with strategies and knowledge that can help them assist their clients. It describes culturally responsive approaches to actions and practices for healing and prevention and also underscores the importance of self-care and wellness. Opening chapters present the neurobiology of a stress-informed approach to health-related actions and frameworks and perspectives that highlight the importance of healing from and prevention of human suffering. Additional chapters examine the connection between human suffering and its effects on human development, human health, and disease. Readers are challenged to apply their knowledge of healing and preventative actions at various levels, from micro to macro and within the helping professions.