Discovering Brainspotting: A Pathway to Healing and Integration

Life’s challenges can sometimes leave us feeling hijacked or overwhelmed, especially when we’ve endured trauma or difficult experiences. While traditional talk therapy can provide insight and relief, some emotions and memories are deeply embedded—beyond the reach of words. This is where brainspotting offers a unique and transformative way forward.

What is Brainspotting?
Brainspotting (BSP) is a brain-body-based therapeutic technique developed by Dr. David Grand in 2003. At its core, brainspotting works with your brain’s innate ability to process and heal. It operates on the principle that where you look affects how you feel, tapping into the brain-body connection to access unprocessed trauma and emotional blocks.

During a session, a therapist will guide you to identify “brainspots”—specific points in your visual field that activate emotional or physiological responses. These brainspots are directly linked to the deeper parts of your brain where trauma, memories, and emotions are stored. By focusing on these points in a safe and supportive environment, your brain can begin to process and release the emotional charge tied to these experiences.

An important and unique feature of brainspotting is that it does not require talking about the difficult memories or emotions for it to work. This makes it especially helpful for those who feel hesitant to revisit painful experiences. Instead, brainspotting uses the body and nervous system to access healing at a deeper level.

How is Brainspotting Different from EMDR?
Brainspotting and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) share similarities as both are effective trauma-focused therapies. However, they differ in approach and experience:

• Flexibility vs. Protocol:
  EMDR follows a structured, step-by-step protocol that uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements or tapping) to help process trauma. Brainspotting is more flexible and intuitive, allowing the therapist and client to tailor the process moment-to-moment based on what feels right.

• Focus on the Body’s Wisdom:
  Brainspotting places a stronger emphasis on somatic awareness—paying close attention to physical sensations, emotions, and shifts in the body during the session. This aligns beautifully with my approach to somatic therapy and somatic tracking, which emphasize the body as a guide to healing.

• Depth and Stillness:
  While EMDR actively engages both sides of the brain through movement or sound, brainspotting often involves stillness and focused attention. This creates space for profound insights and healing without the need for rapid eye movements.

The Benefits of Brainspotting
Brainspotting is a versatile tool that can address a wide range of challenges, including:

• Trauma and PTSD: By accessing deep brain regions, brainspotting helps release the “stuck” energy of traumatic experiences, allowing for lasting relief.

• Chronic Stress and Anxiety: It provides a way to quiet the nervous system and bring balance, especially for those who feel overwhelmed or hijacked by life’s pressures.

• Grief and Loss: Brainspotting offers gentle support in navigating the layers of grief, honoring emotions while finding a sense of peace.

• Relationship Issues: For those with complex trauma from dysfunctional family dynamics, brainspotting can help untangle deeply rooted patterns and foster healthier connections.

• Personal Growth and Expansion: Brainspotting isn’t just for healing—it’s also a powerful tool for growth. Expansion brainspotting can help you access states of inspiration, overcome creative blocks, and explore new possibilities in your personal or professional life. It’s particularly effective in helping individuals become more comfortable with states of calm and ease, supporting long-lasting emotional balance.

Why I Offer Brainspotting at Kore Healing Counseling
As someone who specializes in trauma, grief, and spirituality, I’ve found brainspotting to be a deeply effective way to support clients in their healing journeys. It integrates seamlessly with my trauma training and somatic therapy practices, creating a comprehensive approach that honors the mind, body, and spirit.

In our work together, brainspotting might be a standalone session or part of a longer intensive designed to dive deeper into processing and integration. Because intensives provide extended time for focused work, they are particularly well-suited for exploring brainspotting in depth.

Finding Safety in the Process
I understand that exploring trauma or deep emotions can feel vulnerable. In brainspotting sessions, I prioritize creating a safe and nurturing space where you feel supported every step of the way. Whether we’re working with grief, overwhelm, or personal growth, the process is always paced according to your needs.

Final Thoughts
Brainspotting is a powerful reminder of the brain’s innate capacity to heal when given the right support. It offers a compassionate, whole-person approach to working through life’s challenges—whether you’re seeking relief from pain, greater emotional resilience, or deeper self-awareness.

If you’re curious about brainspotting or how it might support your healing, I’d be honored to walk this path with you. Healing isn’t about “fixing” yourself—it’s about reconnecting with the parts of you that already hold the wisdom to heal.