Research

Understanding the Science of How We Heal

The Center for Comprehensive Healing advances rigorous research to identify what truly works in healing. By analyzing gaps in existing literature and studying both ancient practices and emerging modalities, we build the scientific foundation for whole-person care.

Our research is designed to:

  • Validate Interventions – Evaluate integrative therapies for safety, efficacy, and long-term impact.

  • Illuminate Mechanisms – Explore the biological, neurological, and psychological pathways that underlie healing.

  • Activate Change – Translate findings into practitioner education, community implementation, and evidence-based adoption at scale.

MRI machine and computer monitors displaying brain scans. Collaborative healing modality.

We welcome collaboration with researchers, practitioners, and organizations committed to advancing healing. Donate to support CCH research, or contact us to learn how to get involved.

Get in Touch

Donate to support CCH research, or contact us to learn how you can get involved.

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Multi-Modal Assessment Platform (MindMAP)

Healing treatments for the mind and body can affect people in very different ways. Because outcomes vary, we need better tools to understand what’s working, why it works, and who is most likely to benefit.

Emerging research suggests that combining methods such as brain imaging, gut health analysis, wearable sensors, and smartphone-based measures can provide a more complete picture of how interventions influence the body and mind. These data can reveal changes in brain activity, stress physiology, and behavior—helping clinicians and researchers better understand and personalize care.

Our Multimodal Assessment Platform (MindMAP) integrates these tools to reliably measure biological change alongside real-world clinical outcomes. The goal is to support more effective, personalized healing treatments and accelerate learning across modalities.

Network-Based Neurofeedback + Mindfulness for Repetitive Negative Thinking

This study investigates whether mindfulness training paired with network-based real-time neurofeedback (mbNF) improves outcomes compared to sham feedback in adolescents at risk for serious mental illness. We will assess changes in default mode network (DMN) connectivity, mindfulness practice over three months, and repetitive negative thinking (RNT) immediately post-training (primary outcome) and at 1-, 3-, and 12-month follow-ups.

Acupoint Tapping for Repetitive Negative Thinking

This study examines whether a two-week acupoint tapping intervention delivered via a mobile app is associated with biological, neural, and behavioral changes in individuals with depression and/or anxiety. Twenty participants (ages 16–65) will complete daily sessions using The Tapping Solution app, with assessments before and after the intervention. Primary outcomes include changes in repetitive negative thinking (RNT) and salivary cortisol, with the hypothesis that both will decrease. Exploratory outcomes include shifts in psychiatric symptoms and DMN connectivity measured through functional neuroimaging.

MGB Thought Leaders

We’re incredibly grateful for collaborators across the MGB system who share their time and expertise to move CCH research forward.

  • Justin Baker, MD, PhD

  • A woman with long blonde hair smiling, wearing a black and white blouse with lace details.

    Joan Camprodon-Gimenez, MD, PhD, MPH

  • An elderly woman with gray hair smiling, wearing a black top and red turtleneck, against a dark background.

    Sue Carter, PhD

  • A man with wavy, shoulder-length gray hair, smiling, wearing a dark pinstripe suit, light blue shirt, and a multi-colored striped tie, against a dark background.

    Alessio Fasano, MD

  • Smiling man with dark hair, wearing a blue shirt and patterned tie, standing outdoors.

    Ted Katpchuk

  • A professional woman with shoulder-length light brown hair smiling at the camera, wearing a dark green blazer and a gold necklace, against a plain light gray background.

    Elizabeth Lawson, MD, MMSc

  • Portrait of a bald man wearing glasses, a blue shirt, and a gray blazer, against a gray background.

    Vitaly Napadow, PhD

  • A man with short gray hair smiling in front of a green outdoor background, wearing a dark suit, white shirt, and orange tie.

    Dost Ongur, PhD

  • Portrait of a smiling middle-aged man with short light brown hair, wearing a dark suit, light blue shirt, and a red patterned tie, indoors with wooden furniture in the background.

    Kerry Ressler, PhD

  • A young man with light brown hair wearing a dark blazer and light blue shirt, smiling in front of a dark background with a wooden frame.

    Christian A. Webb

Consultants

CCH research is also supported by consultants from institutions nationwide who lend their expertise to strengthen and advance this groundbreaking work.

  • Emery Brown, MD, PhD

  • Dina Katabi, PhD

  • A man with glasses and a beard outdoors, smiling with blurred greenery in the background.

    Martin Picard, PhD

  • A smiling man with dark hair and light skin, wearing a blue button-up shirt, standing against a gray background.

    Tor Wager, PhD