Brainspotting
Brainspotting is a relatively new therapy that grew out of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Developed by Dr. David Grand, Brainspotting builds on the principles of EMDR, focusing on specific eye positions to access and process traumatic memories.
This innovative approach helps individuals heal from trauma by tapping into the body's natural ability to process and integrate traumatic experiences.
In a Brainspotting session, the therapist guides the client to focus on a specific eye position (a brain spot) while simultaneously recalling a traumatic memory or experience. This dual focus on the eye position and the traumatic event activates the brain's natural processing mechanisms, allowing the client to access and process the stored trauma. During the session, the client may experience a range of physical and emotional sensations, such as changes in breathing, body movements, or shifts in emotional intensity. The therapist provides a safe and supportive environment, helping the client navigate these experiences and process the underlying trauma.
Brainspotting has shown promise in helping individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complex trauma, childhood abuse, and other adverse life events.
By accessing and processing traumatic memories, individuals can reduce or eliminate the symptoms associated with trauma, such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression. Since this doesn’t rely solely on verbal communication, it bypasses the need to retell or relive traumatic events, making a less overwhelming and re-traumatizing experience for survivors.
What is a Brainspotting session like?
A brainspotting session is a kind of focused mindfulness where you will typically wear headphones and listen to bilateral music. This music gently alternates between your left and right ear, creating a calming and focused state.
We'll begin by discussing the issue or concern you want to address. You can share as much or as little detail as you feel comfortable with. Then, I'll use a pointer to help you locate and focus on a relevant "brainspot," a point in your visual field that may hold unprocessed emotions or memories.
As you process, you can talk about whatever comes up for you, or you can simply observe your internal experience. I'll check in periodically to see how you're doing and offer support if needed.
Before we end the session, we'll take time to ensure you feel grounded and centered, not overwhelmed or distressed.
Resources
D'Antoni, F., Matiz, A., Fabbro, F., & Crescentini, C. (2022). Psychotherapeutic techniques for distressing memories: A comparative study between EMDR, brainspotting, and body scan meditation. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(3), 1142. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031142
Hildebrand, A., Grand, D., Stemmler, M. (2017). Brainspotting: The efficacy of a new therapy approach for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder in comparison to eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. Mediterranean Journal of Clinical Psychology. 5(1). Doi:10.6092/2282-1619/2017.5..1376
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Talbot J, de la Salle S, Jaworska N. (2023). A paradigm shift in trauma treatment: converging evidence for a novel adaptation of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 68(4):283-285. doi:10.1177/07067437221142283