What Is Brainspotting & How Can It Help You Heal?

Ever feel like talk therapy only scratches the surface? Like there’s something deeper—something stuck—that words just can’t reach? That’s where Brainspotting (BSP) comes in.

Brainspotting is a powerful, research-backed therapy that helps process trauma, anxiety, and other emotional challenges by targeting specific eye positions linked to stored experiences. It was developed by Dr. David Grand in 2003 and is based on the idea that where you look affects how you feel.

How Does Brainspotting Work?

Your brain naturally holds onto emotional experiences, sometimes in ways that keep you feeling stuck. During a session, a therapist helps you find a "brainspot"—a specific eye position connected to those unresolved emotions. By focusing on this spot, your brain and body start processing things in a way that talking alone can’t always do.

Brainspotting works by accessing the subcortical brain—the part responsible for emotions and trauma storage. This is why it’s so effective for people who have tried traditional therapy but still feel blocked. The best part? You don’t have to talk through every detail of what happened. Your brain does the work naturally, at your own pace.

What Does the Research Say?

Studies show that Brainspotting is highly effective for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and even performance issues. Research by Grand & Corrigan (2013) suggests that it helps activate the brain’s natural healing ability, much like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) but with a stronger focus on how trauma is stored in the body. Other studies show that it improves emotional regulation, reduces anxiety and depression, and even helps with chronic pain.

What Can Brainspotting Help With?

Trauma & PTSD – Helps process memories in a way that feels safe and natural.
Anxiety & Depression – Works with the nervous system to release emotional blocks.
Chronic Stress & Burnout – Supports emotional balance and resilience.
Chronic Pain & Tension – Addresses the mind-body connection in pain management.
Performance Anxiety & Creative Blocks – Helps athletes, performers, and professionals break through mental barriers.

What to Expect in a Session

Brainspotting is a gentle but deep process. A session typically includes:
-Finding a brainspot—an eye position connected to emotional or physical sensations.
-Focusing on that spot while letting thoughts and feelings come up naturally.
- A therapist guiding you through the process in a safe, supportive way.

Unlike some trauma therapies, you don’t have to rehash every detail. Many people experience relief, clarity, and a sense of release after just a few sessions.

Is Brainspotting Right for You?

If you’ve been feeling stuck—whether it’s from past trauma, stress, or something you can’t quite name—Brainspotting could be the missing piece. It’s a powerful yet approachable way to process emotions at a deep level, no over-explaining required.

Curious to learn more? I offer Brainspotting sessions as part of my therapy practice. Reach out today to see if it’s a good fit for you!