Understanding Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB)

Interpersonal Neurobiology is a framework that explores how relationships and brain development shape our emotional lives. While our network of IPNB-informed therapists is growing, you can explore therapists who integrate neuroscience and attachment-based approaches.

Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) is an approach developed by Dr. Daniel Siegel that brings together insights from neuroscience, attachment theory, and mindfulness. IPNB helps people understand how their brains work, how early relationships influence emotional patterns, and how the therapeutic relationship itself can support growth and well-being. Key concepts include the "window of tolerance" (your optimal zone for managing emotions), integration (connecting different parts of your experience), and mindsight (the ability to perceive your own and others' inner lives).

If you're interested in IPNB-informed therapy, you may also find it helpful to explore therapists who work with attachment-based approaches, trauma-informed care, mindfulness-based therapy, or relational approaches. Many therapists draw on neuroscience principles even if they don't specifically list IPNB. Watch intro videos to learn about each therapist's approach and find someone whose style resonates with you.

Diane Brussell

Registered Clinical Counsellor
Waitlist
Offers In-Person (Cortes Island, BC)
Virtual Sessions in all provinces and territories.
Waitlist
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Diane Brussell

Diane Brussell

Registered Clinical Counsellor
She/Her, We/Us
$180/session
Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), Anger, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Assertiveness, Attachment, Befriending the Nervous System, Building Meaningful Connections, Building Self-Care Routines, Boundaries and boundary setting, Borderline Personality Disorder, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Confidence, Conflict resolution, Couples Therapy, Dealing with difficult or narcissistic personalities, Familial and social relationships, Grief and Loss, Mind-body connection, Mindfulness Practices, Navigating challenging relationships, PTSD, Transformative dream work, Somatic Therapy, Personal Growth, Trauma processing
Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), Anger, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Assertiveness, Attachment, Befriending the Nervous System, Building Meaningful Connections, Building Self-Care Routines, Boundaries and boundary setting, Borderline Personality Disorder, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Confidence, Conflict resolution, Couples Therapy, Dealing with difficult or narcissistic personalities, Familial and social relationships, Grief and Loss, Mind-body connection, Mindfulness Practices, Navigating challenging relationships, PTSD, Transformative dream work, Somatic Therapy, Personal Growth, Trauma processing

Daisie Auty

Registered Social Worker
Waitlist
Offers In-Person (Toronto, ON)
Virtual Sessions in ON.
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Daisie Auty

Daisie Auty

Registered Social Worker
she/her
$165/session
ADHD, Relationships, LGBTQ2IA+, Adjusting to a diagnosis, Anxiety, Assertiveness, Attachment, Break-up recovery, Burnout, Coming out and identity, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Emotional regulation, Dating challenges, Familial and social relationships, Family issues, Neurodiversity, Intergenerational trauma, Parenting, Relationship anxiety, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Sexuality and gender issues, Self-Criticism, Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Workplace stress, Identity and Self-Exploration
ADHD, Relationships, LGBTQ2IA+, Adjusting to a diagnosis, Anxiety, Assertiveness, Attachment, Break-up recovery, Burnout, Coming out and identity, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Emotional regulation, Dating challenges, Familial and social relationships, Family issues, Neurodiversity, Intergenerational trauma, Parenting, Relationship anxiety, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Sexuality and gender issues, Self-Criticism, Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Workplace stress, Identity and Self-Exploration

Rebekkah Stainton

Registered Clinical Counsellor
Waitlist
Offers In-Person (Vancouver, BC)
Virtual Sessions in BC.
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Rebekkah Stainton

Rebekkah Stainton

Registered Clinical Counsellor
$175/session
Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Boundaries and boundary setting, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Attachment trauma, Building Self-Care Routines, Childhood trauma, Dissociation, Familial and social relationships, Giftedness Issues, Goal Setting, Imposter syndrome, Interpersonal dynamics, Intergenerational trauma
Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Boundaries and boundary setting, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Attachment trauma, Building Self-Care Routines, Childhood trauma, Dissociation, Familial and social relationships, Giftedness Issues, Goal Setting, Imposter syndrome, Interpersonal dynamics, Intergenerational trauma
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What is Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB)?

Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) is an interdisciplinary framework that integrates findings from neuroscience, psychology, and attachment theory to understand how relationships shape the brain and influence emotional well-being. Developed by psychiatrist Dr. Daniel Siegel, IPNB suggests that our minds develop through our relationships and that healthy connections can promote what he calls "neural integration"—the linking of different brain regions for greater emotional balance. IPNB-informed therapists help clients understand how their brains work and how relational experiences, including the therapeutic relationship, may support personal growth.

What are the potential benefits of IPNB-informed therapy?

Many people find IPNB-informed approaches helpful for understanding their emotional patterns and developing greater self-awareness. This framework may support people in learning to regulate their emotions, building stronger relationships, and understanding how past experiences influence present reactions. IPNB provides a language for talking about the mind-brain connection and can help people feel less alone in their struggles by normalizing how our brains respond to stress and relationships. The approach often emphasizes mindfulness and present-moment awareness as tools for emotional balance.

Who might benefit from an IPNB-informed approach?

IPNB-informed therapy can be relevant for anyone interested in understanding the connection between their brain, relationships, and emotional experiences. It may be particularly meaningful for people exploring attachment patterns, those who have experienced relational difficulties, or anyone curious about how early experiences shape their current responses. Parents interested in supporting their children's emotional development also often find IPNB concepts valuable. The framework is accessible and educational, offering insights that many people find helpful regardless of their specific concerns.

How do I find an IPNB-informed therapist?

While therapists who specifically identify as IPNB practitioners represent a growing field, many therapists integrate neuroscience and attachment principles into their work. On First Session, you can explore therapists who list trauma-informed, attachment-based, or relational approaches in their profiles. When watching intro videos or booking a free consultation, you can ask therapists about their familiarity with IPNB concepts and whether they incorporate neuroscience perspectives into their practice.

What related approaches might I explore?

If you're drawn to IPNB's focus on relationships and brain science, you may also want to explore attachment-based therapy, trauma-informed care, mindfulness-based therapies, or Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. Relational and psychodynamic therapies also share IPNB's emphasis on how relationships shape our inner world. Many therapists blend multiple approaches, so exploring different profiles can help you find someone whose combination of methods feels right for you. Learn more about finding the right therapist for your needs.

How can First Session help me find support?

First Session makes it easier to find a therapist whose approach resonates with you. You can browse therapists by their specialties and modalities, watch intro videos to get a sense of their style and personality, and book directly online when you're ready. All therapists on our platform have had their credentials verified during onboarding. Even if you don't find someone who specifically lists IPNB, many therapists incorporate similar principles. Learn more about therapy costs in Canada to help plan your next steps.