What is Brainspotting?

Brainspotting was founded in 2003 by David Grand. While treating a client using EMDR he recognized her eyes appearing to get “stuck” while performing the back and forth eye movements utilized during reprocessing. He experimented with a fixed eye position (later to be known as a “brainspot”) with great success. Since 2003, the theory of what was happening that was so beneficial has been greatly considered and researched. It is currently believed that Brainspotting utilizes a client’s visual field to help access the part of the brain where trauma is stored. There is increasing evidence that trauma is “stored” in the body and can affect functions of the brain. Brainspotting appears to help access and activate the brain’s innate, intuitive healing power.

Who Can Benefit from Brainspotting?

Brainspotting can work for most people and most presenting issues. The goal is to bypass the conscious thinking processes of the neo-cortex to get to the deeper more emotional and body-based processes from the sub-cortex part of the brain. It is a great option for clients who have found that traditional talk therapy may help them to logically understand their trauma but are still impacted emotionally or through other experiences and body sensations. Amanda and Erika have treated the following presenting issues with Brainspotting:

  • Traumas/PTSD

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Phobias

  • Grief

  • Issues related to low self-esteem/worth

  • Issues related to family of origin

What is A Brainspot?

Which Therapists Offer Brainspotting?

Amanda Woollard and Erika King are both trained in Brainspotting. Amanda has completed Phases 1&2, Erika has completed Phase 1.

Resources:
https://brainspotting.com/about-bsp/what-is-brainspotting/ (accessed 11/22/22)

https://brainspotting.com/about-bsp/ (accessed 11/22/22)

https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/types/brainspotting-therapy (accessed 11/22/22)