Complex Integration of Multiple Brain Systems in Therapy by Beatriz & Albert Sheldon. Published by Norton, New York City, 2021
Book summary: The book, Complex Integration of Multiple Brain Systems in Therapy introduces the neurobiological therapeutic paradigm developed over two decades by Beatriz and Albert Sheldon. This approach integrates insights from neuroscience, psychophysiology, and psychotherapy to address deeply ingrained neural circuits and emotional habits that patients
and clients bring to therapy.
CIMBS emphasizes the activation of self-affirming nonconscious emotional resources through “neurophysiopsychotherapy” aiming to change painful habits and rigid maladaptive neural circuits. By focusing on present-moment capacities within the therapeutic relationship rather than on recollections of past trauma, the modality seeks to foster more complex and flexible mental functioning.
The Sheldons’ methodology includes innovative interventions for assessing emotional states through empirical observations of patients’ psychophysiological phenomena. These interventions draw on the latest research in neuroplasticity and brain development. Their work operationalizes neuroscience research into practical strategies for therapists, offering a comprehensive framework for enhancing psychotherapeutic outcomes.
The text serves as both a detailed guide to the CIMBS model and a resource for clinicians seeking to integrate neurobiological principles into their therapeutic practice. It is particularly valuable for professionals interested in approaches that combine empirical research with clinical application.
Published Video-Training Courses available for purchase online:
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2025) Harnessing the Power of the Belonging Brain System. video-recording training course. www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2024) Critical thinking and Clinical Reasoning: New Approaches to Challenging Therapies. video-recording training course. www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2023a) Discovering & Developing the Therapist’s Conscious Emotional systems. video-recording training course. www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2023b) Recent Developments & Practical Approaches to Enhance Psychotherapy. video-recording training course. www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2022a) How to Become a Neuro-Physio-Psycho-Therapist. video-recording training course. www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2022b) New Developments in the Therapeutic Attachment Relationship. video-recording training course. www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2021a) Developing Resilient Emotional Systems. video-recording training course. www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2021b) Novel Approaches to Fear, Grief, Shame, and Guilt. video-recording training course. www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2018) Discovering the Wisdom and Power of Primary Process Emotions. video-recording training course. www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2017 a) Challenging Therapies: Getting Unstuck Working with Highly Anxious Patients; Differentiating and Integrating Multiple nonconscious Emotional Brain Systems. Video-recording training course. www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2017b) Learning to Work with Multiple Levels of Consciousness. Approaches to Treatment for Resistant Depression. Video-recording training course.
www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2016a) Therapeutic Attachment Relationship. Video-recording training course.
www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2016b) Expanding Efficacy and Effectiveness in Psychotherapy by Utilizing Psychophysiological Information. Video-recording training course.
www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2015) Transpiring Present Moment. Video-recording training course.
www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B. & Sheldon, A. (2014) Unconscious Anxiety and Unconscious Shame. Video-recording training course. www.complexintegrationmbs.com.
Sheldon, B., & Sheldon, A. (2014).
Unconscious anxiety and shame. video-recording training course. http://www.complexintegrationmbs.com .