Research
Nick engages in extensive research and learning to underpin his therapeutic practice.​
​
His research interests focus on the neurobiology of memory and fear and the importance of neuroscience in understanding how therapy works.
​
As a result of his year's of neuroscientific research Nick has developed the Emotional Response Theory from which Emotional Response Therapy (ERT) was developed.
Emotional Response Theory
Most of the issues that bring clients to therapy are developed from physiological and neurological responses to trauma and traumatic events. Understanding brain structure, hormones and neurotransmitters helps us develop a fuller understanding of trauma.
​
Client's psychological distress comes from holding on to the the trauma they experience through mechanisms linked to genetic and survival instincts. Understanding the role of memory and synaptic plasticity is key to understanding why people might continue to be affected by past trauma or fear.
​
Neuroscience not only provides a clear understanding of how fear develops and why it might be retained, it also provides a clear scientific explanation, through mechanisms such as homeostasis and habituation, of how to reduce or remove it through therapy.
​
​
Smith, S. M., & Vale, W. W. (2006). The role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in neuroendocrine responses to stress. Dialogues in clinical neuroscience, 8(4), 383–395.
​
Atrooz, F., Alkadhi, K. A., & Salim, S. (2021). Understanding stress: Insights from rodent models. Current research in neurobiology, 2, 100013.
​
Citri, A., Malenka, R. (2008). Synaptic Plasticity: Multiple Forms, Functions, and Mechanisms. Neuropsychopharmacology, 33, 18–41.
​
​
Research Activity
Alongside his ongoing neuroscience research, Nick is studying the impact and effectiveness of ERT therapy. ​He presents his work at conferences and events, and delivers talks to organisations on topics such as:
​
Neuroscientific development of treatment applications for clients
​
The importance of understanding neuroscience to enhance therapy practice
​
The neuroscience behind EMDR​