ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the general structure, systems, and functions of the human brain as a whole unit. It explains the application of the eight-factor model of human phenomena to stress and trauma and identifies five neuroscience axioms for working with trauma in children and adolescents. The chapter describes the importance of counselors becoming familiar with adverse childhood experiences and notes multicultural implications for this, as well. During development in utero and in the first 24 months following birth, neurogenesis proliferates, adding neurons and making synaptic connections rapidly. This proliferation allows for building the systems and supporting structures that enable the infant to survive and thrive. During this time, circuits or networks are strengthened or pruned away, based on the perceived need of separate systems. Many authors have heralded the reality of brain development as a relational act. Specifically, the infant and child brain patterns its development via the modeling and even the relational resonance with the primary caregiver.
