What Is Brainspotting? The Therapy That Helps You Heal from the Inside Out
In the ever-evolving world of trauma therapy and mental health, one modality is quietly making waves for its ability to access the deeper parts of the brain where talk therapy often can’t reach. It's called Brainspotting, and at Realign Your Mind Counseling Services, we're proud to offer this powerful approach to healing that aligns beautifully with our holistic philosophy.
But what exactly is Brainspotting? And how can it help you?
Where You Look Affects How You Feel
Brainspotting is a neuro-experiential therapy that helps people process trauma, emotional pain, and mental blocks by accessing the subcortical brain—where trauma is stored. It was developed in 2003 by Dr. David Grand, a psychotherapist and EMDR trainer, who discovered that when people hold their gaze in certain eye positions while focusing on an issue, profound emotional processing occurs.
In Brainspotting, we use the phrase: “Where you look affects how you feel.” This simple but powerful truth is the foundation of the technique. When you focus your gaze on a specific point—called a brainspot—it connects to an unresolved experience stored deep in your nervous system. Through that connection, your brain and body begin to heal themselves in a way that feels organic and self-directed.
How a Session Works
A typical Brainspotting session is different from traditional talk therapy. While there’s space to discuss your intentions and emotions, the majority of the work happens in stillness and attunement. Here's a brief overview of what to expect:
You’ll work with your therapist to identify an emotional concern or physical sensation you'd like to explore.
Using a pointer or bilateral music, your therapist will help you locate a brainspot—an eye position that correlates with internal activation.
Once the spot is found, you’ll hold your gaze there and allow thoughts, images, body sensations, or emotions to rise to the surface—without needing to analyze or fix them.
Your therapist stays attuned and supportive, guiding as needed while your body leads the healing process.
Sessions often include bilateral sound (alternating tones in each ear), which supports brain integration and regulation.
What Can Brainspotting Help With?
Brainspotting is a powerful modality for many concerns, including:
PTSD and complex trauma
Anxiety and panic
Depression
Grief and loss
Chronic pain or somatic complaints
Creative or performance blocks
Attachment wounds
Dissociation or numbness
It’s especially effective for people who feel “stuck” or haven’t made progress through traditional talk therapy alone.
Why We Use Brainspotting at Realign
At Realign, we believe healing happens when the mind, body, and soul work together. Brainspotting fits naturally within this philosophy. It invites your body’s innate intelligence to guide your healing—without needing to relive painful memories or explain every detail. It’s trauma-informed, gentle, and incredibly empowering.
Clients often report feeling lighter, calmer, more present, or even surprised by the unexpected emotional shifts that occur. Others say it helps them reconnect to themselves in ways they never knew were possible.
Common Questions
Do I need to talk during the session?
No. You can talk as much or as little as you like. The goal is to follow your internal experience—not fill the space with words.
Is it like EMDR?
While Brainspotting and EMDR both use eye-based techniques and bilateral stimulation, Brainspotting is typically more open-ended and somatically focused. Many clients find it less structured and more adaptable to their pace.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends. Some clients experience significant relief in just a few sessions; others engage in longer-term work for deeper integration.
Pricing
At Realign, Brainspotting is offered as part of our standard therapy services. Session costs vary depending on insurance coverage and provider. Out-of-pocket rates typically range from $165-$200 per session, and we’re happy to verify your benefits beforehand.
Ready to experience Brainspotting for yourself?
If you're curious about how this powerful tool can support your healing journey, we invite you to connect with one of our trained clinicians. Whether you’re navigating trauma, anxiety, or simply feel disconnected from yourself, Brainspotting might be the key to unlocking deeper transformation.
Let your gaze guide you home.