Emotions, the Brain and the Body

Understanding and using research on emotions in clinical practice

In this online course, we will examine how emotion research in psychology and neuroscience has developed over time. Drawing on current theories, we will explore various aspects of emotions:

  • how they arise and what physical and cognitive processes they involve

  • how emotions develop across the lifespan

  • what current theories say about mental health and psychological disorders

  • and how we can find ways to provide patients and clients with clear information whilst remaining scientifically accurate

All times CET (Berlin). Please check your local timezone and note that clocks change on the 25th of October in Germany.

Recordings of each session will be provided.

Programme:

27th of September, 2026, 7.30–9.00 pm:What exactly are emotions?

  • Definitions and theories

  • How do different theories influence practice?

4th of October, 2026, 7.30–9.00 pm:What contributes to an emotion?

  • The autonomic nervous system

  • The brain

  • Language

  • Culture

11th of October 2026, 7.30–9.00 pm: How do emotions develop?

  • Across the lifespan

  • Moment by moment

17th of October 2026, 7.30–9.00 pm (note - this is a Saturday!): Mental health and mental disorders.

  • How do current theories explain mental disorders?

  • … and how does therapy alter the system?

24th of October 2026, 19:30–21:00: Neuromyths and popular misconceptions about emotions

  • The polyvagal theory

  • The reptilian brain

  • Trauma in the body and brain

  • Nervous system regulation

1st of November, 2026, 7.30–9.00 pm: Evidence-based psychoeducation

  • Why accurate psychoeducation matters

  • Developing metaphors and explanatory approaches for patients and clients

Sign up here!