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 powerful, focused treatment method that works by identifying, processing, and releasing core neurophysiological sources of emotional distress, body pain, trauma, dissociation, and a variety of other challenging symptoms. Brainspotting is a physiological tool which has profound psychological, emotional, and physical consequences.
What Can You Brainspot?
As you explore brainspots, you can uncover multiple problems. Troubling thoughts and behaviors can have similar root traumas and triggers.
Some conditions treatable by BSP:
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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
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Anxiety
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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
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Anger
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Chronic pain
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Persistent fatigue
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Phobias
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Impulsive behavior disorders
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Depression
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Addiction
Does it Replace Therapy?
Brainspotting functions as a neurobiological tool to support the healing therapeutic relationship. There is no replacement for a mature, nurturing therapeutic presence and the ability to engage another suffering individual in a safe and trusting relationship where they feel heard, accepted, and understood.
What You Need to Know
Brainspotting may not be ideal for everyone. You may consider the following before starting: Painful revelations are essential to progress. Sometimes, you have to be willing to explore places of hurt to heal. Be sure that you are prepared to embrace the full therapy experience, even if it is a little rough. Repressed experiences can be overwhelming. BSP discoveries may rapidly trigger mental disorders, so these should be considered for everyone’s safety. This type of therapy requires a safe, controlled space for you to unpack your trauma and emotions.
How Does it Work?
Brainspotting neurobiologically locates, focuses, processes, and releases experiences and symptoms that are typically out of reach of the conscious mind and cognitive and language capacity. Brainspotting works with the deep brain and the body through its direct access to the autonomic and limbic systems within the body’s central nervous system.
How Effective is Brainspotting
Brainspotting is reported to help with a variety of psychological concerns, and is primarily used in trauma therapy. 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.