Mapping the Neurobiological Mechanisms of Trauma Interventions: A Scoping Review of Large-Scale Brain Network Perspectives (2020–2025)
Open MIND January 1, 2026 Hui Fan
This scoping review maps neurobiological evidence for psychological and pharmacologically-assisted PTSD interventions published between 2020 and 2025. Using the triple-network model (default mode, salience, and central executive networks), the review synthesizes findings across cognitive behavioral/exposure therapies, somatic/mindfulness-based approaches, imagery rescripting, EMDR, and MDMA-assisted and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. A mechanism-based classification is developed based on each intervention's primary network target and dominant pathway of effect, such as top-down regulation, bottom-up modulation, or multi-network integration. The review is conducted within a participatory framework involving researchers with lived trauma experience in data interpretation and validation of ecological validity.