Brainspotting is a trauma therapy in which the therapist guides a person’s gaze to an eye position linked to strong feelings, then helps them process what comes up. It grew out of EMDR, which uses guided eye movements in a set sequence. EMDR has more research. Blackburn Clinical Services in Los Angeles uses both within a broader plan.
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Key facts
- Brainspotting was developed by therapist David Grand in 2003, building on his work with EMDR.
- EMDR is recommended for post-traumatic stress in children, adolescents and adults by the World Health Organization (Guidelines for the management of conditions specifically related to stress, 2013).
- Brainspotting research is still early. A 2017 study of 76 adults found trauma symptoms dropped with both Brainspotting and EMDR (Hildebrand, Grand and Stemmler, Mediterranean Journal of Clinical Psychology).
- The American Psychological Association’s 2017 PTSD guideline includes EMDR and does not list Brainspotting.
- Our teen clinicians at Blackburn Clinical Services use both EMDR and Brainspotting. At Blackburn, Brainspotting is offered in our Los Angeles office only, not by video.
How does a Brainspotting session work?
A session usually starts like any therapy visit: you talk about what is bothering you and what you want to work on. Then the therapist slowly moves a pointer across your field of vision while you notice how your body feels. When a particular eye position brings up a stronger feeling, such as tightness in the chest or a wave of sadness, that spot becomes the focus. You keep your gaze there and notice what happens, while the therapist stays with you and helps you stay grounded.
Brainspotting is often described as a quiet, inward process. There is less talking than in many therapies, and some people find that helpful when words are hard to find.
How is Brainspotting different from EMDR?
| Brainspotting | EMDR | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Developed in 2003, grew out of EMDR | Developed in the late 1980s |
| Eye work | Gaze held still on one position | Eyes move back and forth, or other side to side tapping or tones |
| Structure | Flexible, follows what comes up | Set protocol with defined phases |
| Talking | Often less talking during processing | Brief check-ins between sets |
| Research base | Early and small | Large, including controlled trials |
| Guideline status | Not in major guidelines | Recommended for PTSD by the WHO (2013) |
What does the research say?
Here is an honest summary. EMDR has been studied in many controlled trials and appears in international guidelines for post-traumatic stress, including for young people. Brainspotting has much less research. The 2017 study by Hildebrand, Grand and Stemmler compared three sessions of each approach in adults after a traumatic event and found both groups improved. It was small, and one of its authors developed the method, so it is a starting point rather than proof.
What that means in practice: Brainspotting is a reasonable option that some people find helpful, especially alongside other work. It is not a replacement for a full treatment plan, and a good therapist will tell you plainly where the evidence stands.
Who may Brainspotting help?
- Teens and adults living with the effects of a frightening or painful event.
- People who find it hard to talk about what happened.
- People who feel stuck in therapy that relies mostly on talking.
- Anxiety or performance stress tied to a specific memory or moment.
It may not be the right first step for everyone. A therapist will look at safety, stability and what your teen or you want before suggesting it.
How does Blackburn Clinical Services use Brainspotting?
At Blackburn Clinical Services, Brainspotting is one tool inside a larger plan, never the whole plan. A teen might combine it with CBT skills for anxiety, family sessions to rebuild trust at home, and EMDR for specific memories. Adults use it the same way. Brainspotting sessions happen one-on-one in our office at 12326 Venice Blvd. Other therapy can also take place by secure video for clients located in California. Read more on our teen trauma therapy and trauma and PTSD treatment pages.
If trauma is showing up with substance use, see teen dual diagnosis treatment. If anyone is in crisis, call or text 988, or call 911.
Frequently asked questions
Is Brainspotting evidence based?
Not yet in the way EMDR is. Early studies, including a 2017 study of 76 adults, found trauma symptoms improved, but the research is small and limited. EMDR has a much larger research base and is recommended by the World Health Organization for post-traumatic stress.
Can teens do Brainspotting?
Yes. Teens can do Brainspotting with a therapist trained in the method, and our teen clinicians use it. The therapist first makes sure your teen feels safe and steady enough for trauma work, and explains the process in plain language before starting.
How many sessions does it take?
There is no set number. Some people notice a change within a few sessions, while others use Brainspotting over a longer course of therapy alongside other approaches. Your therapist will review progress with you and adjust the plan.
Is Brainspotting done by video?
Not at Blackburn Clinical Services. We offer Brainspotting in our Los Angeles office only. Other therapy is available in our office or by secure video for clients located in California, so a plan can combine in-office Brainspotting with video sessions when that fits.
Ask us about trauma therapy
If you are wondering whether Brainspotting or EMDR could help your teen or you, call Blackburn Clinical Services at (888) 870-7405, Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. We will explain both and help you decide on a first step.