WHY TRADITIONAL TALK THERAPY FALLS SHORT
Most mental health programs focus on observable behavior. We focus on the brain. The Rossignole Model© uses modern neuroscience to treat root-level dysfunctions in impulse control, memory, and reward processing, not just the symptoms.
Instead of trying to “change behavior” with external methods like CBT, DBT, or AA’s 12-Steps, we target the underlying neural circuitry that creates those behaviors in the first place.
Substance use, chronic stress and trauma can affect both higher-order cognitive functioning and the neural systems involved in reward, motivation and stress regulation. The framework below highlights two interconnected dimensions of recovery: the executive cognitive capacities needed for adaptive, goal-directed functioning, and neurobiological processes that can contribute to compulsive substance use and persistent vulnerability to relapse.
The Rossignole Model© Explained
Cognitive Control
The brain’s ability to select thoughts and emotions that support goal-directed behavior while suppressing compulsions.
Cognitive Flexibility
The skill to shift mental gears and adapt to new rules, perspectives, or environments in real time.
Working Memory
Temporarily holds and manipulates information—essential for logic, decision-making, and emotional control.
EXECUTIVE COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS
ΔFosB
“Master switch” in the nucleus accumbens. Builds over time with drug exposure, reinforcing compulsive behavior.
Dynorphin
Stress-linked peptide that blunts dopamine, worsens mood, and inhibits the prefrontal cortex—compromising willpower.
Orexin
Normally tied to food-seeking and survival, it’s hijacked in addiction to preserve drug-context memory and cravings.
NEUROBIOLOGICAL DRIVERS OF ADDICTION
THE ROSSIGNOLE MODEL© IN PRACTICE
One Recovery Framework. Multiple Applications.
The Rossignole Model© provides the underlying framework for Boreal’s residential treatment, longer-term relapse prevention and recovery-focused housing strategies connecting neuroscience, experiential therapeutics and environmental enrichment across different stages of recovery.