What Are The Differences Between Brainspotting and EMDR?
There are over eight billion people all over the world. Each person has their own story. No two stories are the same.
Every single person on the planet has their own characteristics, personalities, hobbies, interests, careers, beliefs, relationships, and more.
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to being a human. That’s why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy either. Just like humans, there are many different forms of therapy that target different disorders, wants, and needs.
There may be similar features between the different therapy options, but no two forms of therapy are exactly the same. For example, Brainspotting and EDMR therapy may have similar backgrounds and approaches, but they are separate therapy options for a reason.
Let’s learn more about Brainspotting and EDMR and the differences between the two.
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. This form of therapy helps individuals access different parts of their brain through different eye movements and positions. The idea behind EMDR therapy is that the various eye movements and positions will help individuals process or reprocess traumatic events. The overall goal of EMDR therapy is to help individuals heal or move forward from any stressful or negative life events.
What is Brainspotting?
Brainspotting is a technique that was founded after EMDR. It’s a flexible type of therapy approach where a therapist and client will work together to find specific eye positions or brain spots. The idea is that these brain spots will trigger certain emotions or responses. Once a brain spot is targeted, the client and therapist will work to reprocess the event and connection.
The Differences
While both Brainspotting and EMDR are highly effective treatment options and are based on relatively the same idea, they are two completely different forms of treatment. Let’s learn more about some of the main differences between EMDR and Brianspotting.
The Protocol
One of the major differences between EMDR and Brainspotting is the protocol or procedure used for the two treatment options.
EMDR therapy involves a very detailed eight-phase treatment approach.
First Phase: History taking
Second Phase: Client preparation
Third Phase: Assessment
Fourth Phase: Desensitization
Fifth Phase: Installation
Sixth Phase: Body scan
Seventh Phase: Closure
Eighth Phase: Reevaluation
On the other hand, Brainspotting doesn’t have a set protocol. It’s actually a pretty flexible treatment option. Instead, the treatment is mostly based on the relationship between the therapist and the client.
The Target Audience
EMDR and Brainspotting are both highly effective treatment options. Since EMDR therapy involves a set of eight phases, it can be a little overwhelming or overstimulating for some clients. Brainspotting uses a very focused technique, which means that the treatment can be used for a wide range of clients.
The Eye Movements
While both EMDR and Brainspotting rely on the use of eye movements in order for the treatment to work, the positions and movements are different between the two treatments. EMDR therapy involves various and rapid eye movements. Brainspotting involves focusing and targeting one singular eye position.
Next Steps
If you’re struggling with unresolved trauma, one of the best things you can do for yourself is to reach out for help. It’s great to research on your own so you can have a better idea of what to expect, but a licensed and trained mental health professional can work with you to determine what treatment option is best suited for you and your needs. Your trauma does not define you. It may not seem like it at this moment, but healing is possible. We’re here for you when you’re ready. Reach out to us today to set up a consultation.