Brainspotting (BSP)

Reviewed by the HeyPsych Medical Review Board

Board-certified psychiatrists and mental health professionals

Indications

Primary Indications

PtsdGeneralized Anxiety DisorderMajor Depressive DisorderComplex TraumaPerformance Blocks

Mechanism

Brainspotting works on the principle that specific eye positions are linked to unprocessed traumatic memories and emotional states. By maintaining focus on a brainspot while simultaneously noticing body sensations and emotions, the client engages the subcortical brain regions responsible for trauma storage. This promotes deeper access to implicit memory networks and facilitates resolution of trauma without requiring explicit verbal recall.

Protocol

Preparation

Therapist explains the process, ensures safety, and establishes grounding techniques.

Procedure

Identify a target issue or emotional experience.
Guide the client to find an eye position (brainspot) associated with heightened body sensation or emotional activation.
Maintain focus on the brainspot while processing emotions and body sensations.
Therapist provides dual attunement — relational presence plus neurobiological regulation.
Allow natural resolution and integration of distressing material.

Frequency: Weekly sessions are common.

Duration: Short- to medium-term (may resolve in a few sessions for specific traumas; longer for complex trauma).

Total Treatment Time: Variable; 6–20 sessions typical depending on case.

Equipment

Pointer or therapist’s finger (to guide eye position)

Session Structure

Pre-Session

Grounding and identifying the target issue.

Treatment Phase

Locating brainspot, processing emotions and body sensations while maintaining focus.

Post-Session

Integration, reflection, and grounding before session ends.

Expected Outcomes

Immediate

Increased awareness of trauma-related sensations
Emotional release

Short Term

Reduction in trauma symptoms
Improved emotional regulation

Long Term

Resolution of traumatic memories
Improved functioning and resilience
Enhanced performance in targeted areas

Side Effects

common

Temporary emotional distress
Fatigue

uncommon

Flashbacks or intrusive memories between sessions

rare

Dissociative responses if not properly contained

Contraindications

absolute

Unstabilized psychosis
Severe suicidal intent

relative

Dissociation without grounding skills

Patient Selection

ideal candidates

Individuals with PTSD or trauma symptoms
Clients seeking resolution of performance anxiety
People open to somatic and experiential therapy approaches

screening required

Trauma history
Assessment of stability and support resources

Training Requirements

practitioner

Licensed therapists trained in Brainspotting (Level 1–3 certification)

facility

Outpatient therapy offices

Research Evidence

Key Studies

Grand D. Brainspotting: The Revolutionary New Therapy for Rapid and Effective Change (2013).
Hildebrand A. Effectiveness of Brainspotting in the treatment of PTSD: A controlled outcome study (2017).

Limitations

Research base is smaller than EMDR or CBT; more large-scale trials are needed.

Cost Considerations

typical session cost: $120–$200 per session

total treatment cost: Variable depending on length; $1,000–$3,000 typical

insurance coverage: Sometimes covered under trauma therapy or psychotherapy benefits

cost effectiveness: Moderate — may reduce long-term costs by efficiently resolving trauma

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Integration Support

Concurrent Therapies

CBT
EMDR
Mindfulness-based therapies
Medication management

Special Populations

Clinical Notes

Relies heavily on therapist attunement and presence.
Does not require clients to verbalize trauma details explicitly.
Effective for clients who struggle with talk therapy approaches.

This information about therapy approaches is for educational purposes only. Therapy should be conducted by licensed mental health professionals. The effectiveness of therapy varies by individual and condition. Consult with a qualified therapist to determine the best approach for your needs.

Interested in this treatment?

This information is for educational purposes. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.

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