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Brainspotting
Where you look affects how you heal
What is Brainspotting?
Brainspotting is a growing modern therapeutic approach designed to help individuals process trauma, emotional distress, and other psychological challenges. Developed by Dr. David Grand in 2003, it operates on the principle that where a person focuses their gaze can influence how they feel. Brainspotting is rooted in the belief that trauma can become trapped within the body, leading to both physical and mental health issues. Unlike traditional talk therapy, which is considered a “top-down” approach that works through the conscious mind by addressing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, Brainspotting takes a “bottom-up” approach. This method focuses on releasing physical stress held in the body, which in turn facilitates the release of emotional tension.
How Does It Work?
The clinician works with the client to help them identify their "brainspots" (eye positions that correspond to areas of stored trauma or emotional distress). The therapist helps the client access and process these unresolved issues by holding their gaze in a specific position while allowing the brain to naturally release the trauma without a strict protocol. This process is unstructured, which allows the client to be intuitive to their body and the somatic and emotional experiences they may be experiencing. This method emphasizes the mind-body connection, targeting the subcortical brain where trauma is stored, and aims to release physical and emotional tension without relying heavily on verbal processing.
Who is a good candidate for Brainspotting?
Brainspotting can benefit individuals who are seeking to address deeply rooted emotional and physical distress. It is particularly effective for those dealing with:
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Trauma and PTSD
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Chronic pain
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Emotional regulation issues
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Athletes/artists/ performers struggling to overcome blocks
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Attachment issues
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Grief or loss
Brainspotting works on the deeper, subcortical levels of the brain, so it is especially helpful for those who find it challenging to access or articulate their emotions through traditional therapy methods.