What is Brainspotting?
Brainspotting is a stage 2 advanced therapy that works by identifying, processing and releasing core sources of emotional distress, anxiety, dissociation, physical pain, and a variety of other challenging trauma related symptoms. This is a powerful, focused treatment that uses BioLateral music to support deep work within a contained, therapeutic space.
Brainspotting is a somatic modality that integrates interventions from EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and Psychoanalysis to support the brain and body in re-processing experiences. Because we cannot think ourselves out of being triggered, stage 1 modalities like CBT or DBT often can only take healing so far. On the other hand, mind-body modalities work to re-organize the nervous system including the brain.
In addition to addressing the lingering impacts of trauma, Brainspotting is also highly effective for personal growth, identity exploration, entrepreneurs, artists and creatives, and those looking to deepen their self awareness or spirituality. Because this modality is flexible, I offer a focused approach to expansion work, which my LGBTQ+ Queer and “AuDHD” clients appreciate!
Is Brainspotting only for trauma?
Because Brainspotting focuses on resourcing the nervous system throughout the therapeutic process, folx typically end sessions feeling more relaxed, grounded, and connected. If you have engaged in a therapy modality that has left you feeling overwhelmed or disconnected from yourself, you might consider Brainspotting.
Even as little as 3 Brainspotting sessions can bring about the healing equivalent of 12 traditional talk therapy sessions. For a single incident event, that could be 3 weeks of therapy instead of 3 months. For more complex trauma, that could be 6 months of therapy instead of 2 years.
According to a recent study, Brainspotting was found to be the most effective. EMDR and CBT patients reported their symptoms returning at the 6-month follow-up, while Brainspotting patients continued to get better following their treatment being over. Check out Brainspotting research articles and more below.
What makes Brainspotting so effective?
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We recommend 3 sessions to start, and the longest plans we co-create are 90 days in length.
Various session frequency and duration options are available.
If this neurodivergent-affirming approach proves effective for you, then we can discuss another course of care together!
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Extended Sessions and Intensives allow for increased focused and deeper processing.
For example, we could meet for a 100 minute extended session.
Extended sessions and Intensives are a creative option for those who cannot commit to, or do not benefit from, the standard weekly 50 minute session therapy approach.
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Adjunct Brainspotting therapy is a brief, supplement to your primary therapeutic alliance.
Adjunct therapy requires quick rapport-building with you, and communication with your primary clinician. With focus on a specific goal, this service supports you in working through a stuck point in your therapeutic work.
Adjunct Brainspotting Therapy services typically range from 3-12 visits depending upon your needs and goals.
How do I know if I am ready for Brainspotting therapy?
Typically, you know you’re ready when you understand where your trauma comes from and you can identify your triggers and cope pretty well, but you are quite frustrated with how often you still get triggered, or how intense certain triggers are despite months or even years of therapy.
If you aren’t sure, you can talk with your current therapist about it, or request a free initial consultation video call with us to see if you would be a good candidate here.