What is Brainspotting?

Brainspotting is a type of therapy that uses eye movement, bilateral sound, or tactile stimulation to help people access and heal from traumatic memories. It is a relatively new therapy, but it has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

How Does Brainspotting Work?

Brainspotting works by accessing the brain's natural healing mechanisms. When a person is exposed to a traumatic event, the brain stores the memory of the event in a way that is associated with intense emotions and physical sensations. Brainspotting helps to release these stored memories and emotions, which can help people to heal from the trauma.

What Can Brainspotting Help With?

Brainspotting has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Eating disorders

• Substance abuse

• Pain

• Performance anxiety

• Grief

What to Expect in a Brainspotting Session

During a brainspotting session, you can expect a safe and supportive environment where you explore your emotions and experiences. The therapist will help you identify relevant brainspots, which are specific eye positions or points in your visual field associated with emotional distress or trauma. Focused attention is placed on the brainspot while exploring associated sensations, emotions, and thoughts. The therapist guides the processing and integration of unresolved trauma, aiming for healing at a neurological level. Insights and self-reflection may occur, leading to a deeper understanding of your experiences. The number of sessions needed will depend on your individual needs and progress.

What is the difference between Brainspotting and EMDR?

EMDR and brainspotting are both therapies used to treat trauma, anxiety, and mental health issues. EMDR involves structured eye movements, sounds, or taps to reprocess traumatic memories. Brainspotting is more flexible, focusing on identifying and processing emotions associated with specific "brainspots" in the visual field. EMDR has more research, but both therapies show promise. The choice depends on individual needs and therapist's expertise.

Is Brainspotting Safe?

Brainspotting is a safe and effective therapy for healing trauma and addressing mental health conditions. It's crucial to work with a qualified and experienced therapist. If you're facing mental health challenges, reach out to explore if brainspotting is right for you.