"Joe Kleman is an innovator in the field of predictive processing and Active Inference. Through our discussions, it’s clear that he has a deep, working knowledge of these concepts—not just in theory, but in ways that drive real, pragmatic change. I have no doubt that his contributions will continue to push the boundaries of what can be done—and what should be done."

Karl Friston

Karl J. Friston, MBBS, MA, MRCPsych, MAE, FMedSci, FRBS, FRS

Professor: Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London

Honorary Consultant: The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery

To sum up the research and conceptual bridge: The Cube’s somatic play therapy exemplifies how we can apply active inference in the real world to aid trauma recovery. It shows that by engaging the body (action) and the mind (perception) together in a controlled, compassionate setting, we can facilitate the brain’s natural tendency to minimize prediction errors. Each element of The Cube can be seen through this lens – from titrating surprises to encourage model updates, to using embodied actions to directly counteract traumatic predictions, to leveraging the therapeutic relationship to set positive expectations. This intersection between a cutting-edge therapeutic tool and a leading neuroscience theory is encouraging. It not only provides a scientific rationale for why The Cube may be effective, but it also offers active inference theorists a practical validation of their ideas. As Karl Friston remarked about The Cube’s creator, this work is a case where deep theoretical knowledge is driving “real, pragmatic change” in mental health treatment. Going forward, we may see more therapies built on these principles, and more research investigating how precisely these embodied, play-oriented, prediction-focusedinterventions can rewrite the brain’s predictions to heal trauma. In bridging The Cube and active inference, we witness a promising convergence of somatic psychology, playful engagement, and computational brain science – all working together to help individuals regain safety and wholeness after trauma.

Omid Khadivian

I am an entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in delivering cutting-edge solutions in industry 4.0 domains, such as automation, blockchain, AI, IoT, and VR/AR.
My passion for evolutionary biology, physics and neuroscience compels me to delve into the latest research and advancements in the free energy principle and active inference agents.