Basic elements of brain function previously outlined include the input–process–output neuropsychological conception of brain function, interactions between higher and lower levels of the brain, neural networks, explicit memory systems, implicit memory systems, affect systems, and anxiety systems. It is important to consider these elements interacting together as a finished product, but in order to understand the brain in psychotherapy it is crucial to understand how the end product was achieved.

The processes constituting brain development influence how different areas of the brain operate in psychotherapy for clients at various stages of maturation. The processes of brain development also influence how the brain encodes experiences during childhood and then recalls and applies these experiences during functioning in adulthood.

It is important to consider the influences of both genetics and experience on the development of brain function and personality. It is also important to understand the dual developmental processes of creating and then streamlining neural connections. Finally, it is important to recognize the influences of myelination on the integration and mature activation of brain systems. Consideration of these contributors to brain development can support a more complete understanding of how clients perceive events and respond to them in psychotherapy and throughout life.

Genetics

The genetic code with which each person is endowed at conception contains a range of potentials available to be realized (Gilliam et al., 2000; Kramer, 2005). Some of the characteristics embedded in the code can be activated independent of events in the environment surrounding the organism.