A revolutionary therapeutic modality to support nervous system regulation.
What is Brainspotting?
Brainspotting is based on the principle that "where we look affects how we feel." It uses the reflexive visual field to rewire protective patterns we develop unconsciously to keep us safe. Those patterns can keep us stuck long after danger has passed and interfere with emotional, physical, and mental well-being. Most clients find Brainspotting gentler and more efficient than talk therapy, EMDR, or exposure therapy.
Situations that prompt the brain to adopt unconscious self-protective wiring include:
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Prolonged stress
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Trauma
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Injury
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Illness
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Loss
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Difficult relationships
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Anything that threatens an ongoing sense of safety
What happens during a session?
I will work with you to identify an issue you want to address. It can be something activating/triggering, a physical symptom, or an area in life that leaves you feeling blocked or stuck. Then we will work together to locate one or more brain spots to allow your brain to process while helping you stay inside your window of tolerance. Bilateral music is often a supportive resource used during the session.
What is Brainspotting helpful for?
By rewiring maladaptive circuitry and restoring safety, Brainspotting can help reduce or neutralize:
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Reactivity toward triggers
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Physical symptoms
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Heightened painful emotions
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Avoidant behaviors
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Disconnection and emotional numbness
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Overwhelm
Want to give it a try?
Brainspotting is available during any coaching session. Many clients find they need 50 minutes to allow their brain to process. Some prefer to start with a shorter 25 minute session to get a feel for it before doing deeper rewiring work.
If you are unsure which option is right for you, feel free to ask.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
"After my first Brainspotting session, I knew this was the brain therapy approach I've been needing for my situation that I couldn't seem to get "traction" on with self-directed neuroplasticity approaches, cognitive reframing, and counseling sessions alone. I've had four Brainspotting sessions with Jana over the past five weeks and the results have been very encouraging: I felt calm during a conversation with my mom that would have previously been very triggering to my nervous system. I felt grounded during and after the conversation! I am eager to continue incorporating this useful tool in my work with Jana, and I am so grateful to have learned about and experience this effective resource! I look forward to experiencing more future improvements with this intriguing tool!"
"I felt so comfortable with Jana when we did my brain spotting session. She explained everything clearly and guided me the whole time in a nurturing and supportive way that allowed me to be present and get the most from my session."
More Information about Brainspotting
The experience during a session varies, from person to person and from session to session.
Some people notice little during the session. (This was my experience the first two times.) Others feel something right away. Some people process in silence as their unconscious brain rewires. Others process out loud. It is normal to cry, experience strong emotions, have sensations in your body (such as heaviness, tightness, or discomfort), and to feel surprised at what comes up. This is all part of how the brain reorganizes and lets go of maladaptive protective patterns.
How you feel afterwards varies, too.
Some people feel lighter, freer, and energized. Others feel drained, tired, and may even want to nap. Some feel activated but can ride the wave and trust the process. Some people feel calm for a time, then temporarily more activated, and then calm again. Some sleep deeply and restfully. Others have temporary sleep disruption or dreams. As with any brain rewiring process, the shift in brain chemistry can feel unfamiliar and unsettling, so it can take time for the new normal to feel comfortable.
How can you support yourself after a session?
It can be helpful to schedule your session when you can rest or engage in self-care afterward. You may not need this, but it’s worth creating space just in case. It’s best not to engage in Brainspotting right before a big event, trip, or during a busy workday. Drink lots of water and treat yourself with kindness. Think of Brainspotting as an intense workout for your brain. Additionally, I can teach you how to find your own resource spot so you can support your nervous system outside of a session. Self-spotting is a great technique you can practice anytime.
Is Brainspotting too much for some people?
Typically Brainspotting is well tolerated by almost everyone, even those with a sensitive nervous system. It has been used in cases of severe PTSD and complex trauma, and for individuals suffering from extreme dissociation. Although it is an offshoot of EMDR, Brainpotting does not require you to delve into past trauma. Painful memories may surface during processing, but there’s no need to dig to heal. Often, processing takes place non-verbally and subcortically, which can feel safer and gentler to the brain. There are several ways to resource the brain during a session that help create a safe processing experience. The most important variable is to let your coach or therapist know if it ever feels like too much, so they can guide you into resourcing the nervous system.
How long does it take to see a difference?
Brainspotting varies from person to person, so it depends. For anything pretty significant, it can take more than one session. Some people want several sessions. You don't have to arrive at a specific outcome for Brainspotting to be beneficial. The brain continues to heal and reorganize for 6 months after a session, and you don't have to resolve everything to benefit.
What if I still have questions?
Send me a message here. I'm always happy to hear from you.
To learn more about Brainspotting and how it was developed, visit brainspotting.com
To read publications about the outcomes and efficacy of Brainspotting visit https://rockymountainbrainspottinginstitute.com/resources/, and select the "Research and Articles" tab.