What Is Brainspotting Therapy?
Have you ever noticed that when you recall a story, your eye gaze—where you look—shifts? This is a common experience and reflects the connection between our eye movements and our thoughts and emotions.
Brainspotting therapy uses this connection by identifying specific “brain spots” in your visual field that are linked to emotional or physical distress. Focusing on these spots helps your brain and body process the issue deeply—without needing to talk through a narrative. It’s a gentle technique that taps into your brain’s natural ability to heal.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, Brainspotting engages multiple areas of the brain and body, allowing for a more integrated healing experience.
What issues can Brainspotting help with?
Brainspotting may be helpful for:
- PTSD and trauma
- Anxiety and depression
- Relationship and attachment issues
- Performance and Focus
- Grief and loss
- Feeling “stuck” in therapy
- Difficulty expressing emotions
Reported benefits include: reduced emotional and physical pain, improved sleep, less distress, and a sense of emotional release.
What to Expect in a Brainspotting Session
- Identify a focus: You’ll choose an issue you want to work on.
- Find your brain spot: Your therapist will help you locate an eye gaze position that connects with the distress. You may be asked to rate how you’re feeling on a scale 1-10.
- Use tools: Bilateral music and a pointer may be used to help you stay focused.
- Process quietly: You’ll focus on the spot while noticing thoughts, emotions, body sensations, or shifts in awareness. The therapist will offer support but minimal verbal interaction is required.
- Reflect: At the end, you’ll reflect on what came up and how you feel.
Sessions typically last about 45 minutes, and many clients notice improvement within 1–3 sessions.
How do I start brainspotting therapy?
Tara Emerson, LPC is trained in brainspotting and is passionate about helping her clients heal. She works with older teens, adults, and couples. You can learn more about Tara here.
Your first step to therapy is a free, 20 minute consultation. You’ll video chat with Tara so you can learn what therapy looks like and ask any questions. Tara will be able to go over any insurance benefits at that time too! You can schedule that consultation HEREHERE.
Additional Resources: https://brainspotting.com https://www.verywellmind.com/brainspotting-therapy-definition-techniques-and-efficacy-5213947