ABSTRACT
Emotions, behaviors, thoughts, creations, planning, daily physical activities and routines are programmed within our brains. To acquire these capacities, the brain takes time to fully develop. This development goes far beyond the in utero stages, and may take the first 20 years of life. Disruptions of the brain involving neurons, axons, dendrites, synapses, neurotransmitters, or brain infrastructure (such as glial cells, trophic chemicals, circulation, and CSF) produce profound changes in development and functions of the one organ that makes us unique—the organ that gives us our personality and intelligence. Trauma to this organ can and does change us. To understand the functions and development of the brain is difficult enough, but to reverse the consequences of trauma and repair the damage is even more challenging. To meet this challenge and increase understanding, a host of disciplines working and communicating together is required.
