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In this episode, we explore two fundamental principles in Clinical Psychology that have far-ranging implications for the way we feel, think, and relate to other people. These ideas are simple to understand, but they play an important role in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of mental disorders.

First, we discuss the concept of Needs Fulfillment. All living organisms are engaged in a lifelong struggle to meet their needs, and human beings are no different. We examine the array of needs humans have using the famous model developed by Psychologist Abraham Maslow. We explore the levels of his famous Hierarchy of Needs and explain how the concept of levels is relevant to understanding the ways in which we go about getting our needs met. We discuss how the concept of needs fulfillment provides a framework for understanding the most basic questions people bring into therapy: Why do people do what they do? and, Why do I do what I do?

Second, we introduce and examine the concept of Neuroplasticity. This exciting frontier in medical science unifies long-standing theories of learning with the most recent advances in brain imaging, which demonstrates how the structures of the brain adapt and re-shape themselves in response to the demands we put on them. Our brains are always learning, and what we pay attention to and practice over time shapes our brain to facilitate more efficient thinking patterns. Advances in neuroplasticity help us answer fundamental questions about how human beings learn and how we can understand and change our habits.

Then, we explore how these two simple ideas can come together to help us understand many of our most pressing questions about ourselves and other people. We discuss how a firm grasp of these principles can free us from taking things so personally and can give us a framework for shaping behavior in a more positive way.

While human behavior is complex and may seem impenetrable and mysterious, a familiarity with the fundamental principles that shape it can empower us to make radical and positive changes in the way we understand ourselves and other people. Knowledge truly can empower us to improve our lives.

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Recorded and edited at Studio 970West, Grand Junction, CO.

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