Have you been struggling with trauma, anxiety, or emotional blocks that traditional talk therapy hasn’t quite resolved? You might have come across two innovative therapies in your search for healing: Brainspotting and EMDR. Both approaches have gained recognition for their effectiveness in treating trauma, but how do you know which one is right for you?
Understanding the Basics: What Are These Therapies?
What is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) was developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. This structured therapy uses bilateral stimulation—typically through guided eye movements to help the brain process disturbing memories and experiences that may be stored improperly in the nervous system.
During EMDR sessions, you focus on traumatic memories while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or sounds). This dual-attention approach helps your brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge and integrating them more adaptively into your memory networks.
What is Brainspotting Therapy?
Brainspotting, developed by David Grand in 2003, evolved from EMDR as a newer therapeutic approach. Brainspotting therapy operates on the principle that “where you look affects how you feel.” The therapist helps you find specific eye positions (“brainspots”) that correlate with emotional or physical activation related to trauma.
By maintaining focus on these brainspots while processing traumatic material, your brain can access deeper neural pathways connected to trauma. Brainspotting therapy creates a neurobiological process that can help release and resolve deeply held emotional or somatic (body) experiences.
Comparing Brainspotting vs EMDR: Key Differences
While EMDR and Brainspotting share some similarities as brain-body therapies, several key differences might influence which approach is better suited for you:
Structure and Protocol
EMDR: Follows an eight-phase structured protocol with specific procedures for each phase. The process is highly standardized and includes history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation.
Brainspotting: Offers a more flexible framework that can be adapted to individual needs. The therapist follows your lead more organically, allowing the process to unfold naturally based on your responses to identified brainspots.
Focus and Attention
EMDR: Involves alternating between focusing on traumatic memories and external bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or sounds).
Brainspotting: Maintains consistent focus on a fixed eye position (the brainspot) while processing occurs, often with minimal therapist intervention.
Client Experience
EMDR: Sessions typically involve active participation, following the therapist’s guidance through various phases and exercises.
Brainspotting: Often feels more meditative and internally focused, with the client determining much of the pace and direction.
Benefits and Effectiveness
Does Brainspotting Work?
Does Brainspotting work? Research suggests it can be highly effective for many individuals. While newer than EMDR, Brainspotting has shown promising results for treating trauma, anxiety, and performance issues. Its effectiveness is attributed to directly accessing the subcortical brain, where trauma is often stored.
Many clients report that Brainspotting helps them access and process emotions, sensations, and memories that were previously inaccessible through talk therapy. Because Brainspotting works through the body’s natural healing mechanisms, many people experience relief with fewer sessions compared to traditional approaches.
EMDR Benefits
EMDR has a more extensive research base, with numerous studies demonstrating its effectiveness for PTSD and other trauma-related conditions. Many clients appreciate the structured approach and clear progression through the eight phases. EMDR’s effectiveness is also supported by recognition from organizations like the American Psychological Association and the World Health Organization.
The bilateral stimulation used in EMDR and Brainspotting appears to mimic the brain’s natural processing that occurs during REM sleep, potentially helping to integrate traumatic memories more effectively.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Brainspotting Risks
As with any therapeutic approach, there are some brainspotting risks to consider. Processing trauma can temporarily intensify emotions or physical sensations before improvement occurs. Some people report feeling emotionally vulnerable or fatigued after sessions.
Brainspotting risks are generally minimal under the guidance of a trained practitioner, but it’s important to work with a qualified therapist who can help you navigate any challenging emotional responses that arise during treatment. Brainspotting risks can be mitigated through proper preparation and support throughout the process.
EMDR Considerations
EMDR can sometimes be more challenging for people who have difficulty with the structured protocol or who struggle to follow eye movements due to certain medical conditions. The intensity of emotional processing can also be overwhelming for some clients, particularly those with complex trauma histories. Before starting EMDR, it’s crucial to understand its potential risks and challenges. Learn more about the Dangers of EMDR Therapy to make an informed decision.
How to Choose Between EMDR and Brainspotting
When deciding between brainspotting vs EMDR, consider these factors:
Your Personal Preferences
- Do you prefer a highly structured approach (EMDR) or something more flexible (Brainspotting)?
- Are you comfortable with directed eye movements, or would you prefer maintaining focus on a fixed point?
- Do you respond better to a more conversational approach or a protocol-driven process?
Your Specific Needs
- Complex trauma histories might benefit from either approach, though some therapists find Brainspotting’s flexibility advantageous for complex cases
- Performance issues (like creative or athletic blocks) have shown good response to Brainspotting
- Well-defined traumatic events often respond well to EMDR’s structured protocol
Practical Considerations
- Availability of qualified therapists in your area
- Insurance coverage (EMDR is more widely recognized by insurance providers)
- Time commitment (number of sessions needed may vary)
What to Expect in Your First Session
First Brainspotting Session
In your initial brainspotting therapy session, your therapist will:
- Take a comprehensive history
- Explain the neurobiological basis of brainspotting
- Help you identify resources for emotional regulation
- Guide you in finding your first brainspot
- Allow you to process naturally while maintaining that eye position
- Support you in integrating the experience
First EMDR Session
Your first EMDR session typically involves:
- History-taking and treatment planning
- Learning self-soothing techniques
- Identifying target memories
- Establishing baseline measures of distress
- Beginning the bilateral stimulation process if appropriate
- Closure exercises to ensure stability between sessions
Combining Approaches: EMDR and Brainspotting Together
Some therapists are trained in both EMDR and Brainspotting and may incorporate elements of both approaches. The integration of EMDR and Brainspotting techniques can be powerful, allowing the therapist to draw from a wider range of tools to address your specific needs.
Your therapist might begin with EMDR’s structured approach and integrate Brainspotting when deeper processing is needed, or vice versa. The flexibility of combining these approaches can provide a customized treatment experience.
Making Your Decision
When considering brainspotting vs. EMDR, remember that healing isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. The “right” therapy is the one that resonates with you and addresses your specific needs effectively.
At Healing Springs Wellness, our trained therapists offer both EMDR and brainspotting therapy options. We can help you determine which approach might work best for your unique circumstances or provide a combination of techniques tailored to your needs.
Ready to explore how these powerful therapies might help you? [Book a consultation] with one of our experienced therapists who can guide you through the options and help you take the next step on your healing journey.
Remember, reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you choose EMDR, brainspotting therapy, or another approach, the most important step is beginning your journey toward healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Brainspotting better than EMDR?
A: Neither therapy is universally “better.” Brainspotting vs EMDR is less about which is superior and more about which approach aligns better with your specific needs, preferences, and circumstances. Some individuals respond more positively to one approach over the other.
Q: How many sessions of each therapy would I need?
A: The number of sessions varies based on your specific circumstances. Some people experience significant relief in 1-3 sessions, while others with complex trauma may benefit from longer treatment. Both approaches are designed to work efficiently compared to traditional talk therapy.
Q: Does insurance cover these therapies?
A: EMDR is more widely recognized by insurance companies due to its longer history and more extensive research base. Brainspotting coverage varies by provider. Check with your insurance company or ask potential therapists about coverage options.
Q: What are the risks of these therapies?
A: Both therapies can bring up intense emotions as part of the healing process. Brainspotting risks, like temporary emotional distress or fatigue, are generally manageable with proper therapeutic support. Similar considerations apply to EMDR. Working with a qualified practitioner helps minimize any risks.
Q: Can these therapies help with issues beyond trauma?
A: Yes, both EMDR and brainspotting therapy have shown effectiveness for anxiety, depression, phobias, chronic pain, and performance enhancement, among other concerns.
Q: What qualifications should I look for in a therapist?
A: Look for licensed mental health professionals who have completed specific training in EMDR or Brainspotting. Ask about their experience with your particular concerns and their approach to treatment.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult our qualified healthcare professional Healing Springs Wellness for personalized recommendations.
