Can Therapists and Neuroscientists work together?

In the July 17^th  issue of Nature, Emily Holmes, Michelle Craske, and Ann Graybiel suggest involving more clinical psychologists in Neurosciences. Neuroscientists and clinical scientists “rarely work together, read different journals, and know relatively little of each other’s needs and discoveries. Mental-health disorders account for more than 15% of the disease burden in developed countries, more than all forms of cancer. Yet it has been estimated that the proportion of research funds spent on mental health is as low as 7% in North America and 2% in the European Union.” The author suggests three steps to better integrate clinical psychology in neurosciences: first, uncover the neurobiological mechanisms underlying psychological treatments. Second optimize and develop new psychological treatments by applying neuroscience knowledge and technology; and third forge a link between clinical and laboratory researchers through funding and meetings.