What to Expect in Brainspotting Therapy

Brainspotting is typically used to treat trauma or other types of emotional or physical pain. While there are seemingly countless modalities available to help with things like trauma and other mental health issues, brainspotting is different for a variety of reasons.

Maybe you’ve heard of it before but aren’t sure what the process looks like. Maybe this is your first time doing your research, and you want to learn more to determine whether it’s right for you.

It’s important to understand that the brainspotting experience is unique for everyone. However, if you’re struggling with a specific issue or memory that is negatively affecting your quality of life, brainspotting could be what you’ve been looking for to find relief.

So, what can you expect in brainspotting therapy?

The Initial Consultation

Before you begin the actual process of brainspotting, you’ll go through a consultation with your therapist. This is the time to discuss any concerns you might have, as well as your goals. People who have heard of brainspotting often assume it’s a quick fix. While you are likely to feel relief after just one session, you might have to adjust your long-term goals based on the issues you’re facing and the specific “spots” you want to focus on.

This is also a good time to ask your therapist more detailed questions. Brainspotting helps to unlock your brain’s natural ability to heal, especially if you’ve been “stuck” due to trauma or unresolved issues. That kind of opening up and processing can be emotionally exhausting, no matter how much of a relief you experience. Being able to trust your therapist to help you work through those emotions is essential.

Finding a Brainspot

Your therapist will guide you to find a spot within your field of vision associated with the problem you want to focus on. They might use their finger or a specific object to guide your eyes until the spot is revealed.

Once the brainspot is discovered, you’ll hold your gaze there to release everything from emotions and thoughts to deeply rooted memories. This practice allows everything to come to the surface, rather than remaining “stuck” within the brain. You don’t have to analyze them or wonder what they mean. You simply need to allow them to come forward.

Processing Your Emotions and Thoughts

Again, as thoughts and memories come to the surface, you’re likely to feel a range of emotions. It’s not uncommon for people to cry or feel sad, while also experiencing a sense of relief and peace.

Some people even experience physical sensations, including tingling or heaviness, as they start to process the things that have been buried in their memories for so long. Processing these emotions with your therapist might be difficult at first. However, it’s the best way to find a resolution so you’re not holding onto the weight of negativity anymore.

Is Brainspotting Therapy Right for You?

Brainspotting is often highly effective for people dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, especially if you’ve tried traditional forms of talk therapy without success.

The brainspotting therapy process is a patient-led approach. Your therapist will be there to guide you and help you process your emotions. But, you will be the one accessing past trauma and emotions and working through the process at your own pace.

It’s important to discuss your individual needs with your therapist before you start your brainspotting journey. Thankfully, we’re here to help. Whether you have more questions about what to expect during each session or you want to start discussing your needs and goals, you can contact us today to set up a consultation.