Brainspotting

“Brainspotting is based on the profound attunement of the therapist with the patient, finding a somatic cue and extinguishing it by down-regulating the amygdala. It isn’t just PNS (Parasympathetic Nervous System) activation that is facilitated, it is homeostasis.”

-- Robert Scaer, MD, “The Trauma Spectrum"

What is Brainspotting?

Brainspotting is a therapy technique that helps people process and heal from emotional and physical pain, trauma, and other difficult symptoms. It works by using eye positions (or "brainspots") to tap into deep parts of the brain that store unprocessed experiences.

Brainspotting is often used for:

  • PTSD and trauma

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Chronic pain

  • Performance enhancement (e.g., for athletes, musicians, public speakers)

  • Stress and emotional regulation

With the help of a trained therapist and calming sounds, Brainspotting allows people to access and release emotions that are often buried beyond conscious awareness. It connects directly with the brain and body, helping to heal at a deeper level than just talking about feelings. While it’s a powerful tool, the relationship with a caring and skilled therapist is key to feeling safe and supported during the process.

Referenced from: https://brainspotting.com/about-brainspotting/research-and-case-studies/

How does Brainspotting work?

Brainspotting involves identifying "brainspots," which are eye positions that correlate with stored emotional experiences or trauma in the brain. A therapist helps the client find these brainspots by guiding their eye movements while they focus on distressing thoughts, emotions, or body sensations. This process is believed to help access deeper parts of the brain, particularly the limbic system, where trauma and emotional pain are stored.  

When a person focuses on a specific spot while being aware of their emotions and physical sensations, it helps activate deep parts of the brain linked to healing. This approach works on both a psychological and neurological level, allowing the brain to naturally process and release pain and trauma.

Resourcing – Building Support for Healing:
To prevent feeling overwhelmed during therapy, Brainspotting includes "resourcing." This means gathering tools and support systems to help the client feel safe while processing difficult emotions. Resourcing may include deep breathing, using calming mental images, listening to soothing bilateral sounds, or focusing on less intense Brainspots. The goal is to stay engaged in healing without becoming retraumatized.

The Therapist’s Role:
During Brainspotting, the therapist carefully observes and listens to the client, without making assumptions or interpretations. The client remains in control of their own healing process, creating a strong, trusting, and supportive environment.

What to Expect in a Session:
Some people worry about doing Brainspotting "correctly," but there’s no wrong way to do it. The best approach is to stay open and curious. Sessions often feel like a deep, timeless experience. Clients may notice physical sensations (like tingling, warmth, or numbness), vivid memories, or a range of emotions, from peace and joy to fear or anger. Any difficult emotions are balanced with resourcing, ensuring a safe and manageable process. By the end of a session, most people feel a sense of calm.

Brainspotting can be combined with talk therapy, and the number of sessions needed varies based on individual needs. The therapist and client work together to find the best approach for healing.

Why do we offer Brainspotting?

We have experienced clinicians who have been helping individuals overcome mental health concerns and are always learning and improving. Brainspotting gives them new tools to enhance their current methods or explore completely new approaches to therapy. Our clinicians have received training from Dr. David Grand Brainspotting International Organization from Tracy Gantlin-Monroy LPC and Joy Myong.

Let us help you transform your life's path.

If you’re interested in Brainspotting treatment and looking for a therapist who can help you, please call 804-592-6620 or email us for your free, 15-minute consultation to see how our clinicians trained in Brainspotting may be able to help you.