Neuroscientist Breanne Kearney Explores Trauma’s Impact on the Body

A remarkable journey in neuroscience culminated this month as Breanne Kearney graduated from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry with her PhD, earning the prestigious Governor General’s Gold Medal for outstanding academic achievement. Kearney’s research focuses on the intricate relationship between trauma and the brain’s sensory-motor networks, particularly in individuals living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Kearney’s interest in neuroscience was sparked unexpectedly during a neurology course while she was training as an occupational therapist at the University of New Hampshire. Her career path shifted dramatically after working with children facing behavioral challenges, including a six-year-old boy whose transformation through therapy deeply impacted her perspective.

Upon entering Kearney’s care, this boy had been expelled from multiple schools, struggling with anger and emotional regulation. Through engaging activities such as movement and play, Kearney helped him develop crucial emotional skills, leading to his successful graduation from first grade just six months later. This experience prompted Kearney to delve deeper into the connections between sensory processing and trauma, ultimately steering her toward academic research.

Innovative Research on Trauma and Sensory Processing

Under the guidance of noted researcher Dr. Ruth Lanius, Kearney’s PhD research employs functional MRI technology to explore how trauma manifests physically within the body. She aims to uncover the neurological underpinnings of the visceral sensations often experienced by trauma survivors, including tension and pain.

“Many people with trauma feel it in their bodies – tension, pain or visceral unease,” Kearney explains. “We wanted to know what parts of the brain correspond with this sense of reliving things somatically in the body.”

Kearney’s research also investigates a novel psychotherapy known as deep brain reorienting, which addresses the fundamental reflexive responses to traumatic events. “This therapy focuses on the shock response from the lowest part of the brain, before any thoughts or feelings,” she notes, emphasizing its unique approach to trauma treatment.

In clinical trials, Kearney and her colleagues observed significant symptom improvements among participants, particularly those who had not responded to traditional therapies. “It offers another option for people, especially those who don’t do well with exposure or talk therapy,” she said.

A Pathway to Future Research and Practice

Raised in Long Island, NY, Kearney spent six years in Portland working with children and adolescents facing neurodevelopmental challenges before pursuing a master’s degree in cognitive neuroscience at University College London. A pivotal moment in her journey was reaching out to Dr. Lanius via email, expressing her belief in the potential of their collaborative work.

“I still can’t believe I cold emailed Dr. Lanius, having no clue how much of a giant she is in this field,” she recalled with amusement. This connection led her to a fulfilling career that uniquely blends clinical practice with scientific inquiry.

With her doctoral studies now complete, Kearney is continuing her research as a postdoctoral scholar at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry while working toward her licensure in Canada. She intends to maintain a balance between research and occupational therapy, emphasizing the importance of real-world clinical experience.

“I’m passionate about having a foot in research while still keeping myself in the reality of seeing people in the clinic,” Kearney stated. “It just gives me such a richer understanding. And working with people, especially children – that’s my heart’s work.”

Kearney’s dedication to understanding and treating trauma through the lens of neuroscience signals a promising future for both her career and for the many individuals who may benefit from her innovative approaches.