Brainspotting is a brain and body-based therapy which is predicated on the belief that certain eye positions correspond to trauma capsules in a memory network. Focusing on these positions can evoke emotions, sensations, and memories as they have access to specific brainspots where traumatic memories are stored.

Brainspotting aims to help clients process difficult emotions and/or traumatic experiences using the brain’s innate self-healing function.

Originally, brainspotting was developed by David Grand as a trauma treatment but has since been expanded to be used for a wide range of mental conditions which include but is not limited to the following:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or complex trauma

• Attachment issues stemming from childhood trauma 

• Dissociative disorders

• Emotion regulation problems, including anger issues or mood swings

• Symptoms of depression or sadness

• Anxiety disorders or specific phobias

• Substance use disorders or addictions

During brainspotting, a practitioner will help clients position their eyes to target sources of negative emotion. With the aid of a pointer, a practitioner slowly guides the eyes of clients across their field of vision to find appropriate “brainspots,” an eye position that activates a traumatic memory or painful emotion. Once an eye position is identified, the practitioner and client will hone in on the difficult feelings and process them.