Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about brain-based therapy
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Traditional therapy often focuses on talking through problems and past experiences. Brain-based therapy combines this with understanding the neurological patterns that create and maintain your challenges. We look at how your brain processes information, creates emotions, and forms habits—then give you specific tools to work with these natural systems rather than against them. This approach tends to create faster, more lasting change because we're addressing root causes, not just symptoms.
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Many clients notice shifts in understanding and hope within the first session. Practical improvements often begin within 2-4 sessions as you start applying brain-based tools. Significant, lasting change typically occurs after you have practiced new thought, feeling and behavioural strategies, though this varies based on the complexity of your situation and your commitment to applying the techniques. The beauty of understanding your brain is that once you "get it," the changes tend to be self-reinforcing.
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Our Stillmind methodology is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which has decades of research supporting its effectiveness. We integrate this with current neuroscience research on neuroplasticity, emotional regulation, and cognitive patterns. Dr. Kennedy stays current with the latest research and applies evidence-based techniques that have been proven effective for anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. Every technique we use has solid scientific backing.
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Absolutely. With 14 years of experience in the Middle East, Dr. Kennedy has worked with clients from diverse cultural, religious, and national backgrounds. The brain-based approach is universal—anxiety and stress work the same way regardless of culture—but the application is always tailored to respect your values, beliefs, and cultural context. Many techniques are practical and skills-based, making them applicable across different cultural frameworks.
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This is common, and often it's because previous therapy focused on symptoms rather than the underlying brain patterns creating them. Many intelligent, successful people find traditional "talk therapy" frustrating because it doesn't provide the concrete tools and understanding they need. Our Stillmind brain-first approach gives you specific techniques and a clear understanding of why your mind works the way it does, which tends to be much more effective for analytical, problem-solving personalities.
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A Discovery Session is a comprehensive 75-minute consultation where we analyze your specific brain patterns, identify what's creating your challenges, and develop preliminary strategies for addressing them. You'll leave with immediate insights about your mental patterns, practical tools to start using right away, and a summary email with clear next steps. It's an investment in understanding exactly how your brain works and what you need to move forward.
For Couples:
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Whether you're pursuing-withdrawing, criticism-defensiveness, or mutual avoidance, these are all predictable attachment patterns that respond well to this approach. The key is understanding that these patterns make sense given your attachment histories.
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Attachment theory is universal—all humans are wired for connection regardless of cultural background. I've worked with couples from diverse cultural backgrounds in the UAE for over 14 years and understand how cultural expectations can impact relationships.
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If you're both willing to invest in understanding your patterns and learning new skills, the approach can be valuable. However, if separation discussions are active or one partner has already decided to leave, individual discovery sessions might be more appropriate first.
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This is common and completely understandable. Start with the Discovery Session, which focuses on understanding rather than "fixing." Many hesitant partners find it less threatening when framed as learning about how relationships actually work, rather than traditional therapy.
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Yes, I provide secure online sessions for couples internationally. EFT works effectively via video sessions, and I have extensive experience helping couples connect virtually while maintaining the intimacy needed for deep attachment work.
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The Premium Package includes an initial assessment, regular EFT sessions, homework exercises, progress check-ins, and ongoing support. It's designed as a comprehensive 3-month transformation journey with flexibility to meet your specific needs and schedule.
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EFT has the strongest research base of any couples therapy approach, with 70-73% of couples moving from distressed to recovered. Unlike approaches that focus on communication techniques, EFT addresses the underlying emotional patterns and attachment needs driving your conflicts.
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Yes, EFT is highly effective for rebuilding trust and healing from infidelity. By addressing the attachment injuries and fears underneath betrayal, couples can create new patterns of safety, transparency, and emotional connection that are stronger than before.
For Individuals:
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Yes, I provide secure online sessions for clients throughout the UAE and internationally. The brain-based approach works equally well via video sessions, and many clients prefer the convenience and privacy of online therapy.
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After completing any of the pathways, most clients find they have the understanding and tools they need to continue their progress independently. For those who want ongoing support, additional individual sessions are available, and I offer a free monthly group CBT session for continued learning.
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If you're new to CBT or want deep understanding first, start with the Discovery Session. If you have a specific challenge and want immediate tools, choose the Individual CBT Session. If you enjoy learning with others and want comprehensive knowledge, the Brain Blueprint Workshop is ideal. For complete transformation with ongoing support, the Premium Solutions program provides the most comprehensive experience.
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That's exactly why we offer the free 15-minute consultation. This gives you a chance to understand the approach, ask questions, and determine if it feels right for you before making any investment. Most clients find that the brain-first methodology makes immediate sense, even if other approaches haven't worked for them.