Brainspotting
Brainspotting is a remarkable therapeutic approach that taps into the brain's innate ability to heal itself. Developed in 2003 by David Grand, Ph.D., Brainspotting offers a unique and effective way to address childhood adversity, trauma, stress, and emotional and relational challenges. Although this powerful intervention has been only minimally studied in research settings (with positive results, see the link below), thousands of therapists around the world support individuals through this unique form of healing. I am a certified Brainspotting therapist, and part of my training has been focused on attuning to the experiences of BIPOC adults.
Brainspotting is a therapeutic modality that utilizes the connection between eye position and brain activity to access and process unresolved trauma, distress, pain and emotional or physical blocks.
It's surprising but true: Where you look affects how you feel.
As your therapist, together we will locate specific eye positions called "brainspots," to help you tap into your brain's natural healing mechanisms, to support your emotional and psychological growth. My role is to attune to you and to gently encourage your mind-body connection, self-acceptance, and curiosity so that you can heal on your own terms.
The simple technique used in Brainspotting – focusing your gaze on a pointer held by a trained therapist while tuning in to your emotions and bodily sensations – can have a surprisingly profound impact on your ability to connect with meaningful emotions, develop new perspectives on your challenges, feel at ease and secure in yourself, and so much more!
Benefits of Brainspotting
Looking at the brainspot during therapy helps you focus on and heal from painful experiences, beliefs, and body memories that keep you stuck in the past. I will be there to support you in noticing, feeling, and learning from your experience.
Brainspotting has shown significant efficacy in helping individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences, reducing the emotional and physical impact of past events, without the need to explain in depth or reconstruct what happened to you with words.
trauma resolution
By accessing and addressing the underlying causes of anxiety and depression, Brainspotting can bring relief and promote emotional
wellbeing.
Mindfulness and acceptance are core components in healing from anxiety and depression that are integrated in this method.
emotional regulation
anxiety & depression relief
This therapeutic approach assists in improving emotional regulation and resilience, providing individuals with valuable coping mechanisms for navigating life's challenges.
Many participants have shared that they relate to their emotions differently after processing their challenges with Brainspotting.
This is a somatic approach to therapy. Healing will include attention and care towards how your body was impacted by painful life experiences.
supports focus during session - emphasis on deep-brain ("bottom up") healing can lead to lasting change -
therapist talks less, follows your lead - helps integrate body, mind & heart - facilitates mindfulness and awareness
of memories, experiences, body sensations, and beliefs that contribute to your challenges - frequently brings increased ease, self-acceptance & empowerment to participants
Brainspotting can help athletes, artists, public speakers, and other individuals overcome mental blocks and optimize their potential.
Change can happen quickly when using Brainspotting. Many people are able to make progress towards their goals much quicker than they expected.
growth & self-discovery
relationship distress
If you've tried talk therapy before, but yearned to go deeper, you'll likely be surprised to experience how simply this method shines light on unnoticed issues, supports mind-body connection, and orients you towards empowerment and possibility.
This gentle process allows stuck patterns to shift and self-limiting beliefs to be reconsidered, allowing growth and change to occur naturally.
goal achievement
If you struggle to connect and feel safe with others, Brainspotting can support you to develop deeper self-understanding and shift old patterns to allow for safe, authentic and healthy relationships.
What is Brainspotting Therapy for Trauma, Anxiety, Depression by Sacred Roods @viergelyn
Video about Brainspotting:
more information
-- Many thanks to Michelle Van Aken for sharing some of her descriptions of Brainspotting throughout this page.
email me to discuss how Brainspotting can support your healing: lees@lightonthewatertherapy.com
or request an introductory video chat at a day and time that works for you:
While Brainspotting can be highly effective, it may not be suitable for everyone. It's important to consult with a qualified therapist or practitioner who can assess your unique needs and guide you through the process. This may help you determine if Brainspotting aligns with your goals and create a personalized treatment plan for optimal results.
Because I've seen this form of therapy facilitate profound change, Brainspotting is my primary modality. I am happy to integrate more traditional talk therapy as well as other forms of somatic therapy into our work together as needed.
Brainspotting is effective in-person as a part of Ecotherapy, as well as virtually over telehealth.
PO Box 229001
Bellingham, WA 98229
