Brainspotting Therapists

Brainspotting is a therapeutic technique that uses specific eye positions to help access and process trauma and emotionally charged experiences. The approach is based on the understanding that where you look can affect how you feel. During a session, a therapist guides you to find eye positions—known as brainspots—that correspond with activation of particular memories or feelings. While holding these positions with focused awareness, the brain's natural processing abilities are supported, allowing for deeper emotional work.

Brainspotting may be helpful for people working through a wide range of concerns. Many people explore this approach when addressing trauma, anxiety, grief, phobias, or emotional blocks. It is also commonly used by those seeking support with performance challenges, creative blocks, or stress-related difficulties. Because brainspotting works with the body's natural healing processes, it can be suitable for people at various stages of their therapeutic journey.

In a brainspotting session, your therapist will typically begin by helping you identify an issue or experience you want to work on. They may use a pointer to guide your gaze to different positions while you notice changes in your body sensations or emotional responses. Once a relevant brainspot is located, you'll hold your gaze on that position while maintaining a mindful awareness of your internal experience. The therapist provides support and attunement throughout this process. Sessions often include bilateral sound through headphones, which may help facilitate deeper processing.

The length of brainspotting therapy varies from person to person. Some people notice shifts within a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term work depending on what they're addressing. Your therapist can help you understand what to expect based on your unique situation and goals. Many people appreciate that brainspotting can sometimes access and process material more quickly than traditional talk therapy alone, though everyone's experience is different.

Finding the right therapist is an important part of the process. On First Session, each therapist has a detailed profile and intro video so you can get a sense of their personality and approach before reaching out. Look for someone whose style resonates with you and who you feel comfortable with. Credentials are verified during onboarding, and you can filter by location, availability, and whether they offer online or in-person sessions. Many therapists also offer free consultations so you can ask questions before committing.

Booking a session on First Session is straightforward. Browse therapists who offer brainspotting, watch their intro videos, and read their profiles to find someone who feels like a good fit. Once you've found a therapist you'd like to work with, you can book directly online through their profile. Many therapists offer both online and in-person appointments, giving you flexibility in how you connect. If you're unsure where to start, take your time exploring profiles—there's no pressure to decide right away.