Our past experiences form how we see the present.
We develop ways of thinking and acting to cope with life.
We experience the world through individual filters,
which are like an acquired software, installed neurologically throughout our lives. (When cognitive scientists talk about software in the brain, they refer to patterns of neurons connected to perform various tasks.) In therapy we track the dysfunctional patterns to their core.
Negative neurologic cortical controls, which create defenses against feelings, can be relaxed in the safety of a therapeutic relationship. The therapist's supportive and stimulating presence makes it safe to fully express repressed anger and feel one's fear, sadness, and pain. This is the foundation for therapeutic growth as the natural healing steps are now allowed.

