How Does Brainspotting Work and What Are the Benefits?

There are a variety of therapies and modalities designed to help with the lasting effects of trauma. However, many of them involve a lot of talking, which can be difficult for trauma survivors or those dealing with setbacks. 

One of the most unique forms of therapies that can help with these issues is brainspotting. If you’ve ever heard of eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing, the two therapies have similarities. However, key differences are important to note if you’re trying to find the right treatment option. 

Let’s take a closer look at brainspotting, how it works, and some of the greatest benefits, so you can determine if it’s the right type of therapy for you. 

What Is Brainspotting?

Like EMDR, brainspotting utilizes bilateral stimulation to help you heal from trauma or other types of emotional stress. It focuses on the idea that different “spots” within the brain must be focused on to heal from those painful memories. 

These spots are within the visual field, so your therapist might use their finger or an object to guide your eyes back and forth until they notice any changes (such as eye fluttering). These spots are connected to certain memories and emotions. Brainspotting is identifying those spots and unlocking memories that have otherwise been tucked away so your body can start to heal itself naturally. 

Over time, once those memories are reprocessed, brainspotting can help develop new neuropathways. That doesn’t mean you forget about the memories. You can look at them from a different perspective without fear or pain. 

How Does it Work? 

So, how can someone identify where a brainspot actually is? During a typical session, your therapist will ask you to focus on a specific traumatic event or memory. In contrast, your therapist guides your eye movement with their finger or an object. 

Your therapist will watch your eyes move from left to right to notice any changes in your movements or actions. If you blink rapidly or your eyes flutter, they’ll look closer at that spot and your stored memory. 

When a brainspot activates, your therapist can work with you to dive into that memory and learn how to reprocess it into something healthier and less overwhelming. Stored trauma can negatively impact your mind and body. Brainspotting is an effective way to release it. 

Brainspotting isn’t some kind of magic solution. Once you discover a traumatic memory, it can be difficult or even scary to feel like you’re reliving it. But knowing you’re in a safe location with someone who can help you work through it can make a big difference. You can finally start to heal with strength and support. 

What Are the Benefits?

So, what can you expect from brainspotting? Why might it be a better choice than other forms of talk therapy? 

The strongest benefit is the research that shows its success. It’s been found over and over again to successfully help people struggling with trauma, including complex trauma. It also helps people deal with anxiety, depression, and even OCD. 

Another great benefit is that brainspotting isn’t something you’ll have to continue doing for the rest of your life. Once your neuropathways are open to new ideas and you’ve been able to process and let go of stored trauma, you can start the next chapter of your life without continuing therapy. 

Interested in learning more about brainspotting and whether it can help you deal with unprocessed stored trauma? Feel free to contact us to set up an appointment for trauma therapy.