Brainspotting and EMDR Therapies: Why They’re Different
Trauma therapies such as Brainspotting (BSP) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) have gotten attention from both clients and researchers. While both therapies are rooted in the treatment of trauma and share some conceptual similarities, they differ in how their sessions actually work. Here are the differences between Brainspotting and EMDR so you can determine which is right for you.
What is EMDR?
EMDR was developed in the late 1980s to primarily treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The goal is to help people reprocess traumatic memories so that they no longer cause distress. During the desensitization phase of treatment, the therapist guides the client through bilateral stimulation (typically moving the eyes from side to side). This bilateral stimulation is believed to help the brain process and re-integrate traumatic memories. Over time, the traumatic memory becomes less vivid and emotionally charged, allowing the client to think about it without the same intense emotional response.
EMDR involves eight structured phases of treatment:
History-taking
Preparation
Assessment
Desensitization
Installation
Body Scan
Closure
Reevaluation
What is Brainspotting?
Brainspotting is a more recent therapeutic approach, developed by David Grand in 2003. Brainspotting also addresses trauma and emotional distress, but it takes a different approach than EMDR. It’s based on the idea that where you look affects how you feel. The technique involves identifying “brainspots,” which are eye positions that correlate with the activation of traumatic memories in the brain. By maintaining focus on these brainspots, the therapist helps the client access and process these deeply buried traumas.
In a typical BSP session, the therapist uses a pointer or their own hand to guide the client’s gaze across their visual field. As the client moves their eyes, they may notice areas where they feel a heightened emotional or physical response. These areas are the brainspots. Once identified, the client holds their gaze on the brainspot, allowing the brain to process the underlying trauma over however many sessions the client needs.
Differences between EMDR and Brainspotting
Structure vs. Flexibility: EMDR is highly structured with its eight-phase approach, guiding the client through a series of steps to reprocess trauma. Brainspotting, on the other hand, is considered to be more client-led. The client’s own process dictates the direction and pace of the therapy.
The Therapist’s Role: In EMDR, the therapist takes a more active role in guiding the process, particularly during the desensitization (bilateral stimulation) phase. Brainspotting requires the therapist to be attuned and present but allows the client’s brain to lead the way, making it a more client-centered approach.
Bilateral Stimulation vs. Eye Position: EMDR focuses on eye movements (or audio cues) from side to side, stimulating both sides of the brain. Brainspotting instead focuses on training the eye at a single spot without necessarily using bilateral stimulation.
Applications: EMDR often targets specific memories and beliefs directly. The client chooses a single memory to focus the eight phases on. This means it’s incredibly effective for those with specific traumas. Brainspotting can uncover and process trauma in a more organic and less direct way. It can also be used for treating other issues like performance issues, and can be incorporated into other therapeutic approaches.
Research: EMDR has a wealth of research supporting its long-term effectiveness, particularly for PTSD. Brainspotting, while newer and less researched, has been gaining traction as a therapy that can offer quick results.
Which one is right for you?
Choosing between Brainspotting and EMDR depends on the nature of your trauma, your personal preferences, and your response to different therapeutic approaches. Some people may find the structured approach of EMDR to be comforting, especially if they have clear memories to target. Others might prefer the fluid and client-led nature of Brainspotting, since they may have difficulty articulating their trauma or prefer a less directive approach.
Schedule a free consultation call today to see whether EMDR or Brainspotting is right for you.
About the Author
Nicole Mendizabal is a licensed marriage and family therapist providing virtual therapy services in Florida. She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, and trauma.
