There is increasing evidence that trauma is “stored” in the body and that it can alter the way the brain works. Trauma can, for example, have an effect on emotions, memory, and physical health. Brainspotting seems to activate the body’s innate ability to heal itself from trauma.

 

While a therapist may attempt to access both the physical and emotional “locations” of negative emotions, Brainspotting therapists use something called “dual attunement,” a process through which the therapist simultaneously attunes to the therapeutic relationship as well as the brain-body response of the person in therapy. There is some evidence that Brainspotting works primarily on the limbic system, a collection of brain structures that play a role in emotion, long-term memory, cognition, motivation, impulse control, and several other psychological factors that can affect well-being.

 

How Effective Is Brainspotting?

Both Brainspotting and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapies attempt to help those in therapy reprocess negative events and retrain emotional reactions. EMDR, the older of the two therapies, has been more intensively studied, but therapists are increasingly practicing Brainspotting and reporting positive results.

 

Reported to help with a variety of psychological concerns, Brainspotting is primarily used in trauma therapy and for the treatment of PTSD. It has also been shown to assist in injury recovery and help treat physical illness, inattention, stress, and low motivation. Some therapists believe psychological issues – such as anger, procrastination, and difficulty concentrating, among others – can be caused by trauma. Therefore, Brainspotting might be a particularly effective form of therapy for those individuals who wish to address one or more of these concerns.

 

Who Can Benefit from Brainspotting?

Those who have experienced either physical or emotional trauma may benefit from Brainspotting. This form of therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment option for those experiencing:

 

• All forms of trauma
• Anxiety
• Attention issues (ADHD)
• Anger issues
• Phobias
• Substance abuse
• Chronic fatigue and chronic pain
• Impulse control issues
• Sports performance issues

 

HOW MUCH DOES BRAINSPOTTING COST?

Brainspotting is used as an adjunct to traditional therapy, and is $150 for 1.25 hours.