Brainspotting
I have completed Brainspotting Phase 1 and Phase 2 training and may integrate Brainspotting into our work when it fits your needs, comfort level, and goals. You are always an active part of deciding which approaches we use in counseling.
Brainspotting is a bottom up approach that recognizes that our experiences can affect not only our thoughts and emotions, but also the body and nervous system. Sometimes we can understand why we feel or respond a certain way, but insight alone doesn’t seem to change what we’re experiencing. I use Brainspotting and nervous system regulation strategies to help address patterns and experiences that may be difficult to fully access or process through talking alone.
Where you look can be connected to what you notice and experience internally, which is a central part of Brainspotting. Together, we identify a specific eye position, or “brainspot,” that seems connected to an emotion, memory, physical sensation, or experience you would like to work through. From there, you are given space to notice and process what comes up at your own pace, with support throughout the process.
How is Brainspotting similar to EMDR?
Brainspotting and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are both approaches that can be used to help people process distressing experiences and trauma. Both go beyond traditional talk therapy by paying attention to what is happening internally, not only to the thoughts or words associated with an experience.
There are also some important differences. EMDR typically follows a structured protocol and often uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds. Brainspotting generally involves identifying an eye position connected with what you are experiencing and allowing your gaze to remain in that area while you notice and process what arises.
Brainspotting tends to be less structured in the moment, allowing the process to unfold with fewer prompts or directions from the therapist. You do not have to know exactly what to say or be able to explain everything you are experiencing for us to work with it.
When might Brainspotting be used?
Brainspotting may be incorporated into counseling when working with trauma or painful experiences, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, shame, relationship patterns, or areas where you understand what is happening but continue to feel stuck.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any additional questions. You can also visit Brainspotting.com to learn more about Brainspotting.