Brainspotting
What is Brainspotting in Chattanooga?
Brainspotting is an innovative, brain-based intervention that helps identify, process, and heal neurophysiological sources of trauma, emotional pain, dissociation, and a variety of other symptoms, as well as enhance creativity and performance. It works by locating points within the visual field (brainspot) to access trauma and distress that is stuck in the subcortical brain.
Unlike talk therapy, which only accesses the prefrontal cortex (our thinking brain), brainspotting accesses unprocessed trauma in the limbic system (our emotional and survival brain). You’ve probably noticed that when you talk about certain things or recall memories, your eyes may move towards a certain direction. Brainspotting harnesses this natural phenomenon to help locate and process unresolved trauma. Rather than talking, a brainspotting therapist focuses on providing emotional presence and attunement.
Who is it Helpful For?
Brainspotting is primarily a tool used in the treatment of trauma, however, brainspotting is also helpful for issues such as:
● ADHD
● Anxiety/performance anxiety
● Addictions
● Chronic, unexplained tension/pain
● Creativity and performance enhancement
● Depression
● Identity issues
● Prolonged grief
● Self-esteem issues
What Should I Expect in a Session?
Before we begin the processing (brainspotting), we will likely spend the first or second session getting to know you and the issue(s) you’re bringing to therapy, as well as building trust and connection. Below is the outline of what you can expect during a processing session:
● Your provider will provide headphones playing bilateral stimulation music at a low volume. (The music is typically described as calming, and can help enhance the experience, but it is optional.)
● You will talk about the identified issue until it becomes emotionally activated. Then you will rate the level of distress you’re feeling on a 1-10 scale.
● Your provider will then ask you to locate and describe the sensations you’re feeling in your body and focus on them.
● Your provider will use a telescopic pointer and ask you to follow it with your eyes while observing for nonverbal indicators of your brainspot.
● Your provider won’t talk very much, but will be highly attuned to your process. You are able to talk as much or as little as you want.
For more information and resources, visit Brainspotting.com
