In this episode, Xavier Bonilla has a dialogue with Simona Efanov about the neurophysiology of stress, clinical psychology, and the dangers of self-help psychology. They discuss the various definitions of stress and talk about the aspects of positive stressors. They provide a review of neuroanatomy and discuss the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and the cycle of stress. They define emotions in general and then explain the impact of chronic stress. There is also a discussion on the differences between chronic stress and trauma and how trauma can impact development and attachment. 

In the second half of this dialogue, there is a broad discussion of what clinical psychology is and some of its functions and efficacy. Specifically, there is a description of the development and creation of statistical methods and psychological assessment. They discuss the differences between PhD's and PsyD's along with talking about some of the current challenges in the field of Psychology. They talk about the importance of explaining psychological science and research concretely to the general public. They offer a critique of self-help and pop psychology with a specific case example and critique of Brene Brown along with other topics. 

Simona Efanov is a licensed clinical psychologist who has done research on stress and currently does clinical work in a private practice. She also is involved with clinical training and is a professor of neuropsychology and other clinical courses. 

 

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