EMDR vs. Brainspotting: What Is The Difference?
There are so many different kinds of therapy out there that it can be challenging to keep them all straight. Some, like EMDR and Brainspotting, have so many similarities that it can be difficult to tell them apart.
Both types of therapy rely on using eye movements to activate bilateral stimulation in the brain for the purpose of processing and healing trauma—but the mechanics of the therapies are very different.
EMDR vs. Brainspotting: Origins
Both EMDR and Brainspotting are powerful therapies with peer-reviewed studies to support their effectiveness. EMDR was developed by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D, in 1987 as a potential treatment for PTSD, anxiety, and other issues. Through the use of eye movements and bilateral stimulation, EMDR sessions allow for greater recall of traumatic, stressful information.
Brainspotting was discovered in 2003 by Dr. David Grand, as the result of his experience conducting EMDR sessions. Brainspotting also functions as an effective treatment for trauma but uses a very different methodology to resolve and clear traumas, creative blocks, and other issues.
Key Differences
Session Structure
One key difference between EMDR and Brainspotting is the amount of time each therapy requires. EMDR utilizes a formal eight-phase structure, consisting of multiple multi-hour sessions, whereas Brainspotting can be done on a more informal basis. Brainspotting is done on a session-by-session basis.
Passive Presence vs. Dual Attunement
In EMDR, the therapist plays a passive role. Their focus is on following formal EMDR processes from a mechanical perspective. There is not a focus on close bonding between therapist and client.
A key tenant of Brainspotting is ‘dual attunement’. Dual Attunement is achieved by putting a strong emphasis on creating an environment of safety, support, and connection. This activates the parts of the brain associated with attachment and assists with releasing attachment-related trauma.
Detailed Recall vs. Somatic Awareness
EMDR sessions focus on detailed recall of traumatic memories and events, while Brainspotting sessions focus on somatic awareness. An EMDR session utilizes talk therapy in coordination with left-right eye movements, tactile sensors, light machines, and sometimes headphones for bilateral auditory stimulation. In EMDR, these tools are used to promote the connection between the left and right hemispheres of the brain, improving recall and access to stressful information.
Brainspotting sessions focus on somatic awareness. During a Brainspotting session, the therapist guides the client’s eye movements. As the eyes move to specific positions, different memory areas are activated. By looking for subtle indications like unconscious movements and by asking the client to report on sensations in their body, the person conducting the session is able to identify areas of the brain locked into a trauma-response state. Once identified, those ‘brain spots’ are processed and cleared.
Resolving Trauma vs. Healing the Neural Network
When it comes to healing, EMDR and Brainspotting are quite different. EMDR’s approach to healing is to enable greater access to traumatic memories, at which point talk therapy can be used to review, process, and re-interpret those memories. This process is quite intense as it involves reliving the experience.
In contrast, Brainspotting focuses on healing the areas of the brain responsible for holding onto traumatic information. By getting in touch with the Amygdala—Amy, as I like to call her—clients can safely recall and explore the feelings associated with their trauma and release them.
As emotion is unlocked from the body, the trauma from the past becomes less controlling.
Which is right for you?
EMDR requires several multi-hour sessions with a long planning stage and is best done in person. Brainspotting is done virtually or in person as part of a one-off session or over time. I have experienced Brainspotting as both therapist and client and can attest to how powerful and healing it is.
If you’re interested in exploring Brainspotting, I would love to hear from you. I am always excited to connect with clients and provide them with a loving, safe environment where they can heal.