Brainspotting vs EMDR.
If you're considering trauma therapy, chances are you've come across Brainspotting and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Both types of modalities help people work through distressing emotions, memories, and experiences, but they’re not quite the same.
So, what is the difference between Brainspotting and EMDR?
The biggest difference between the two approaches is how you access and process distressing memories or emotions. EMDR uses a highly structured eight phase protocol and bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping. Brainspotting uses fixed eye positions using a pointer and is less structured, which allows you as the client to set the pace.
How is Brainspotting different from EMDR?
Both Brainspotting and EMDR are brain-based somatic approaches that process trauma with a focus on internal experiences. Focused mindfulness and physical sensations are key components to both modalities.
How EMDR works: Your therapist will guide you to identify a painful memory or experience while using bilateral stimulation, meaning your eyes move from side to side. This can include following a light bar, tapping, or headphones.
How Brainspotting works: With support from your therapist, you’ll identify a brain spot where sensation feels the strongest and hold your gaze on a pointer as you process.
Throughout both processes your therapist will check in with you to notice what’s coming up for you but you don't need to go into specific details of the event.
Which is right for you?
Some clients like the structure and guidance that EMDR provides. Others may find the autonomy and flexibility Brainspotting offers to be more beneficial.
Both approaches focus on the connection between mind and body by noticing physical sensations and incorporating mindfulness.
One isn't necessarily better than the other and both can be effective modalities for trauma processing. It can just depend on personal preference, which resonates better with you as an individual, and how structured you want your therapy sessions to be.
As a newer modality, Brainspotting hasn’t been as extensively researched as EMDR. However, as with any therapy modality, one of the strongest predictors of success is the therapeutic relationship.
What can Brainspotting and EMDR help with?
Both were originally developed for PTSD and trauma but can also be helpful in supporting:
anxiety
phobias
depression
dissociation
Your therapist can help you determine which approach is better suited for your needs.
Brainspotting for Anxiety: A gentle approach to calming your nervous system.
With traditional talk therapy for anxiety you may notice and be aware of your patterns but feel stuck when it comes to knowing how to change them.
Brainspotting for anxiety can help you reconnect your mind and body, targeting both physical and emotional symptoms of anxiety.
By tapping into deeper parts of your mind you can process memories and emotions that keep you feeling overwhelmed.
Brainspotting in NC, SC, and VA.
At Sage Mind Counseling and Wellness I offer Brainspotting for clients that are looking for a deeper way to heal, especially if they have felt stuck with talk therapy.
Check out the Brainspotting page to learn more and reach out for a free consultation if you think this could be a good fit for you.
You can read more about my approach to therapy here and check out FAQs to learn more.
