The Divided Brain

We have all grown up with the knowledge that our brains are divided into two hemispheres – the left and the right. How often though might we question why? More importantly, are the commonly held answers to our question sufficient and even correct?

By understanding this division and its historical, societal, and practical implications, we can gain valuable insights into the complexity of the human brain and potential ways to foster more balanced and integrated cognitive, emotional, and behavioral processes.

Within recent years, an acknowledgement of the distinct yet complementary roles of the hemispheres has been researched and has revolutionised our thinking about the functioning of the brain. This has brought many challenges to us as Counsellors and Psychotherapists.

By engagement with this new research, therapists can gain a more nuanced understanding of their clients' experiences and tailor interventions accordingly. This recognition can provide a framework for promoting integration and balance, leading to improved well-being and psychological functioning.

In this CPD we will look at the latest research into the divided brain, including the main contributor to the field – Iain McGilchrist. We will then look at the way this challenges us as a society, in our relationships with ourselves, with each other, with our views on culture, spirituality, and our environment. We conclude by considering the implications for ourselves as human beings and as clinicians.

Rosemary has extensive training and experience as a counsellor, psychotherapist, supervisor, and trainer. She is trained in both Gestalt Psychotherapy and Integrative Psychotherapy and has completed additional elements of training in Transactional Analysis, Behavioural Therapy and Client-Centred Counselling. She was previously course leader of the Person-Centred Counselling programme at The Sherwood Institute. In all the different trainings Rosemary related to her interest in the interface between spirituality and psychology. She has been a tutor on the Counselling Programme at St. John’s Theological college in Nottingham and completed a second MA in Theology and Pastoral Care.

In addition to psychotherapy training, Rosemary has trained as a supervisor and trainer and currently tutors on the Supervision training at SPTI. Prior to this Rosemary was a qualified Psychiatric Nurse and has more than twenty years’ experience working in the NHS, including a specialist role as a Nurse Therapist. She is accredited with the UKCP and runs a private practice working with individuals, couples, and groups.

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