When it comes to therapy, the sheer number of approaches can be overwhelming. Among these, brainspotting might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie. However it’s actually a powerful, accessible, and deeply transformative therapeutic technique.
I fell in love with this modality after interviewing Noula Diamantopoulos. On Inside The Therapy Room and I highly recommend going to listen to her, before you even finish this blog. She is wise, and wonderful.
It’s recently got to do the training with Noula. After those 3 days, it has not only impacted me personally but I firmly believe that it is going to be a game changer to the people I work with.
What Is Brainspotting?
Brainspotting, at its core, is about tapping into your brain’s natural ability to heal itself. It was developed by Dr. David Grand, and it works on the idea that where you look can influence how you feel. This might sound a bit odd at first, but it’s grounded in neuroscience. The premise is that specific eye positions can access different parts of your brain, especially those connected to memories, emotions, and experiences stored deep within.
During a brainspotting session, a therapist guides you to find a “brainspot”. A particular point in your visual field that connects with the part of your brain holding onto trauma or emotional pain. By focusing on this spot, you can process and release the pain in a way that feels natural and non-intrusive.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, brainspotting doesn’t require you to dive into the details of your trauma. It’s a gentle, client-led approach that respects your pace and your unique journey.
What Does It Feel Like?
The short answer from a personal experience – it’s WILD!
The longer answer? Imagine sitting comfortably, with your therapist gently guiding you to find a point where your gaze naturally rests. As you focus on this spot, your mind may start to wander to memories, sensations, or emotions. There’s no rush, no pressure to explain or rationalise what you’re experiencing. Instead, you’re allowed to just be in the moment, with your therapist there to support you.
Many people describe brainspotting as a surprisingly calming experience. Even though it can bring up difficult emotions, there’s a sense of relief that comes with releasing old wounds. The process can feel like slowly peeling back the layers of an onion, allowing you to get to the heart of what’s been causing you pain.
It is not a quick fix, and it may still take time. But it is deeply powerful.
Brainspotting & Religious Trauma
For those who have experienced religious trauma, brainspotting can be particularly beneficial. It is a powerful tool in the recovery process because it allows us to address trauma where it lives—in the body. When we’ve been through religious trauma, our nervous system can become dysregulated, stuck in patterns of fight, flight, freeze or fawn.
Religious trauma often involves deep-seated beliefs, fears, and emotions tied to one’s identity, community, and even sense of self. This kind of trauma can be tricky to address. It’s not just about what happened, but also about what you were taught to believe and how those beliefs shaped your world.
Brainspotting allows you to access and process these complex emotions without having to dissect or relive the trauma verbally. This can be especially helpful if you’ve been conditioned to suppress or ignore your feelings. By focusing on a brainspot, you can gently explore and release the emotions tied to your religious experiences. Allowing you to reclaim parts of yourself that may have been lost or suppressed.
Imagine finally being able to confront the fear or shame instilled by harmful religious teachings, but in a way that feels safe and manageable. Brainspotting offers a path to healing that doesn’t require you to relive every painful memory but instead helps you release the emotional charge connected to those memories.
Should I Consider This?
If you’re struggling with unresolved trauma—whether from religious experiences or other life events—brainspotting offers a unique and effective way to heal. It’s a method that respects your need for safety and control, allowing you to explore your pain without becoming overwhelmed by it.
As someone who incorporates brainspotting into my practice, I’m here to support you on this journey. Whether you’re dealing with religious trauma or other deeply rooted emotional pain, we can work together to find the healing and relief you deserve.
If this resonates with you, please feel free to reach out.
Healing is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone.