Brainspotting
What is Brainspotting Therapy (BSP)?
Brainspotting is a unique form of psychotherapy developed in 2003 by David Grand, Ph.D., as a modification of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
It’s based on the idea that “where you look affects how you feel,” and uses specific eye positions to help clients access and process deeply stored emotions and memories in the brain.
How does Brainspotting Work?
Core Concept: Brainspotting helps identify and process “brainspots,” which are eye positions that correspond to areas of the brain where emotional trauma or distress is stored.
Technique: The therapist uses a pointer to guide the client’s gaze to various positions until a “brainspot” is located, which can trigger strong emotions, physical sensations, or memories.
Integration: Once a brainspot is identified, the therapist combines eye positioning with mindfulness and body awareness, allowing the client to stay focused on the brainspot and release the associated emotional and physical responses.
Brainspotting is thought to reach deep parts of the brain, such as the midbrain, that are difficult to access through traditional talk therapy.
By targeting these areas, it allows the brain to process and release trauma that’s often stored out of reach of the conscious mind.
Guide to Learning and Practicing Self-Brainspotting
Who Can Benefit from Brainspotting Therapy?
Brainspotting therapists may help people who have been through physical or mental trauma.
This type of therapy has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment choice for persons who are suffering from the following symptoms:
- All forms of trauma
- Anxiety
- ADHD
- Anger issues
- Phobias
- Substance Abuse
- Chronic fatigue & Chronic Pain
- Impulse control issues
- Sports performance issues
What are the Side Effects of Brainspotting?
Clients may feel emotions, bodily sensations, and memories during a Brainspotting session.
Following a Brainspotting session, some people describe feeling physically or emotionally exhausted, as if they have had a strong release.
Is Brainspotting Effective?
Frequently Asked Questions
Brainspotting is used to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic pain, performance anxiety, and other emotional or physical conditions.
Sessions typically last between 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the individual and the therapist's approach.
The number of sessions varies based on your personal needs and the issues you are addressing. Some people may feel improvement after just a few sessions, while others may need more.
Yes, Brainspotting is considered safe when performed by a trained therapist. However, like any therapy, it may bring up intense emotions during the process.
Sessions can feel different for each person. Some people feel intense emotions, while others experience physical sensations or a deep sense of calm and relief.
