Brainspotting Therapy

Our wounds are often the openings to the best and most beautiful parts of us.”
– David Richo

Are You Tired of the Old Patterns and Struggles?

Are you tired of living with the weight of past traumas and anxiety? Do you long to break free from the grip of painful memories and emotions? You may have heard about Brainspotting from a friend or professional who experienced real change with this powerful therapy. Maybe you’re seeking a new way to heal, one that honors your unique story and helps you reclaim your life. If so, you’re likely wondering whether Brainspotting can truly help you find the peace and freedom you crave. The answer is, it can.

So, let’s dive deeper into what Brainspotting is, how it works, and what you can expect from this approach.

Close up portrait of young woman

What Is Brainspotting Therapy?

Brainspotting (BSP) is a therapy approach developed by David Grand, Ph.D. in 2003, building on his extensive work with trauma survivors and his experience as a licensed therapist and EMDR practitioner. Grand’s breakthrough discovery was sparked by his observation that certain eye positions seemed to correspond with specific emotional and bodily responses in his clients. Through rigorous research and testing, he identified specific eye positions, known as brainspots, which are linked with unconscious, emotional experiences. He found that by targeting these brainspots, the body’s natural capacity to heal itself is ignited, allowing for the release of stored traumas and negative emotions. This innovative approach has shown remarkable effectiveness in treating a range of conditions, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and more.

woman with curls smiling - brainspotting

In brainspotting, you are seen as the expert on yourself and the therapist as a supportive co-creator. 

Altogether, the goal of this practice is to support you in connecting to your natural capability to heal.

The Versatility of Brainspotting Therapy

Brainspotting is a holistic approach that cares for your whole being – body, mind, and spirit. It’s a gentle yet powerful tool that can help you find balance and well-being in all areas of your life. One of the most amazing things about brainspotting is how it can be tailored to fit anyone’s needs, no matter their background or situation. Brainspotting can also help you:

 

  • Release deep-seated tension and pain

  • Rewire your brain’s response to triggering stimuli
  • Integrate traumatic memories into your narrative, reducing their hold on your life
  • Improve your professional life and relationships
  • Tap into your creativity and artistic side
  • Manage chronic pain and stress
  • Overcome addiction and other challenges
  • Boost your performance in sports or other activities
EMDR & Brainspotting, Which Is For You?

EMDR & Brainspotting, Which Is For You?

If you are reading this article you have likely heard about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) or Brainspotting (BPS) and have an interest in learning more about these powerful therapeutic interventions. Both EMDR and BSP, are well regarded...

Brainspotting Therapy and the Brain

Brainspotting (BSP) has been studied and found to access the deeper regions of the brain, where traumatic memories and pre-verbal information are stored. By tapping into the right hemisphere, limbic system, and brain stem, BSP reaches areas that traditional talk therapy often can’t touch. This innovative approach focuses on the brainspot – a specific eye position that correlates with the stored trauma – while also honoring your bodily sensations and emotions. This powerful connection allows you to:

– Access and process stored traumas and negative emotions
– Release deep-seated tension and pain
– Rewire your brain’s response to triggering stimuli
– Integrate traumatic memories into your narrative, reducing their hold on your life

Through this holistic and gentle process, Brainspotting empowers you to shed the weight of your past and move forward into a more balanced, clear, and fulfilling life.

Inside a Brainspotting Therapy Session

In a Brainspotting session, we’ll identify a specific issue or challenge you’d like to work on. Then, we’ll use a gentle and non-invasive technique to guide your eyes to a specific brainspot, a visual access point to your brain’s stored memories and emotions. You’ll notice a physical sensation or emotional response. We’ll explore and process the emotions, memories, or beliefs connected to that brainspot, allowing you to release tension, gain insight, and develop new perspectives.

As your therapist, I’ll hold a safe and supportive container for you to process your emotions, memories, or beliefs connected to that brainspot. I’ll be attuned to your needs, offering guidance and support as needed, while also respecting your autonomy and self-healing capacity.

woman in wheelchair in peace  - brainspotting

Q & A

How does Brainspotting differ from other trauma therapies?

Brainspotting uniquely targets specific eye positions linked to stored traumas, accessing deeper brain regions and promoting natural healing.

Can Brainspotting be used in conjunction with other therapies?

Yes, Brainspotting can be integrated with other approaches, such as EMDR, to enhance its effectiveness.

How many Brainspotting sessions are typically needed?

The number of sessions varies depending on individual needs and progress.

Is Brainspotting a rapid therapy?

Yes, Brainspotting can lead to rapid breakthroughs and changes, but it’s important to note that everyone’s pace is unique.

Can Brainspotting help with performance enhancement and personal growth?

Absolutely! Brainspotting can tap into your creative potential, improve performance, and foster personal growth.

To learn more about Brainspotting, you can read my blog on EMDR vs Brainspotting and/or book a free consult now.