Brainspotting
A powerful, brain-based therapy that helps process trauma and emotional distress by accessing the body’s natural ability to heal.
You may have heard of Brainspotting or know someone who has worked with a Brainspotting therapist—but what exactly is it? Brainspotting is a relatively newer therapeutic approach that taps into the brain’s natural capacity for healing. Developed by Dr. David Grand, an EMDR practitioner, Brainspotting uses fixed eye positions to help access and release stored trauma and mental “blocks” through focused processing with a trained therapist.
Brainspotting can be helpful for a wide range of concerns, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Procrastination
- Lack of motivation
- Fear of the future
- Grief`
Brainspotting session
You might be wondering what a Brainspotting session actually looks like. During a session, your therapist will invite you to bring to mind a difficult emotion or experience. Together, you’ll explore how that experience shows up in your body—perhaps as tightness in your throat or a sensation in your stomach. Your therapist will then guide your gaze to specific points within your visual field and ask you to notice where these sensations feel most activated.
Once a “brainspot” is identified, you’ll hold your gaze on that spot while listening to soothing bilateral music through headphones. Throughout the process, your therapist provides support and a safe, nonjudgmental space as your brain begins to make connections and process emotions at its own pace.
Brainspotting is grounded in the principle of neuroplasticity—the idea that the brain is constantly changing and capable of forming new neural connections throughout life. By accessing distressing memories and emotions and incorporating bilateral stimulation through music, Brainspotting can help the brain build new pathways that support growth and healing.
As with any therapeutic approach, Brainspotting is most effective when there is a strong sense of trust between client and therapist. A supportive, compassionate therapeutic relationship allows clients to engage more fully in the process and create healthier patterns as they heal.
Brainspotting can also be done via telehealth. All that’s needed is a device with a screen and a pair of headphones to listen to bilateral music, which is readily available online. Your therapist can guide you through identifying your brainspot and completing the processing in much the same way as an in-person session.
Flexibility
Another benefit of Brainspotting is its flexibility. It can be used alongside other therapeutic approaches, including traditional talk therapy. Some clients alternate between talk therapy sessions and Brainspotting sessions, while others incorporate both within the same appointment. Brainspotting is a tool—not a rigid formula—and clients always have a say in how and when it’s used.
If you’d like to learn more about Brainspotting, you can visit About Brainspotting.
Start Your Wellness Journey
Maybe someone you trust nudged you toward support. Maybe you’re ready to care for yourself in a new way. Or maybe you’re here for someone you love. Whatever led you to this moment, your first step matters — and we’re here to walk with you. Click below to start your wellness journey today!