What is Brainspotting?
Brainspotting is a trauma-focused therapy approach that was developed by David Grand. It is to help individuals process and heal from trauma, experiences, emotional pain, anxiety, and stress that may feel “stuck” in the body and nervous system. This approach is based on the understanding that where we look can connect to how we feel emotionally and physically.
During a Brainspotting session, the clinician helps identify eye positions connected to emotional activation while creating a safe, supportive space for processing. Clients are encouraged to notice thoughts, emotions, and body sensations without pressure or judgment. This gentle, body-based approach can help access and process experiences that may be difficult to put into words.
Brainspotting is related to EMDR because it grew out of EMDR work, but there are differences:
EMDR is more structured and uses bilateral stimulation and eye movements.
Brainspotting is generally slower-paced, more open-ended, and focused on sustained eye position and somatic awareness.
A typical therapy session may include:
Identifying a target issue, feeling, or memory
Noticing where the client feels activation in the body
Using a pointer or visual cue to locate a “brainspot”
Holding attention there while processing internal experiences
The clinician maintaining attunement and grounding support throughout the process