Biological Psychotherapy Research Group
(Group leader: Dr. Julia Veeh)
Recent studies have reported several neural correlates of affective disorders. Especially malfunctions of the regulatory circuits of the emotional regulation seem to be of note here. For example, in bipolar disorder, a reduced connectivity between ventral-prefrontal networks, the limbic regions, and the amygdala were found. Cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy seems to be very helpful and effective in those patients. It is well known that psychotherapeutic interventions, comparable to other learning processes, alter neurobiological processes and structures (neuronal plasticity). It is, however, not thoroughly clarified how these changes occur and if psychotherapy truly helps normalize the neurobiological anomalies or if these are rather compensated by other areas.
The research group is engaged in the identification of biological predictors for the success and long-term course of behavioral psychotherapy. Also, possible mediators for the psychotherapeutical efficacy are examined. It is the aim of the group to differentiate distinct subgroups of a psychiatric disorder, which are distinguishable by means of affected brain structures as well as their responsiveness to certain interventions. Especially affective disorders (depression and bipolar disorder) and ADHD are of interest. Methods used are imaging techniques, EEG (resting state/ emotional-cognitive tasks), and genetic and biological markers to evaluate biological mechanisms of action of psychotherapy.
Research questions:
What are the mediators for an effective psychotherapy (KVT) in bipolar disorders and ADHD? What are biological predictors for a successful psychotherapy and the long term progression?
Methods:
- Imaging, EEG (resting state, emotional-cognitive tasks)
- Genetic/biological markers