Comparing EMDR Therapy and Brainspotting
Our team at Sustainable Wellness has a special passion for getting to the root of our clients’ symptoms and struggles. Two of our favorite treatment approaches, EMDR therapy and Brainspotting Psychotherapy have both similaries and differences. Read more about them below.
Similarities between EMDR and Brainspotting
Both utilize Bilateral Stimulation (BLS).
Bilateral Stimulation is any type of stimulation that occurs on both sides of the body. Bilateral stimulation is used to activate and integrate information from the brain’s two hemispheres. In both EMDR and Brainspotting, the stimulation occurs in an alternating rhythm. BLS serves to create balance between the right and left hemispheres of the brain, which enhances a feeling of calm in the body. This helps to lessen the activation of distressing memories and change the brain’s wiring related to that memory.
Examples of bilateral stimulation include using alternating right to left stimulation such as tapping on the knees, legs or shoulders, tapping toes or feet on the floor, or eye movements.
Both focus on the eyes and eye movements.
Research has consistently found that eye movements lower the vividness and emotionality of memories, and intrusive thoughts of negative memories. While EMDR and Brainspotting have different ways of focusing on the eyes, both use the eyes to help clients effectively process distressing trauma memories and ongoing pain.
Both use specific evidence-based research protocols.
In EMDR, the process that the therapist follows is called a protocol. In Brainspotting, it’s referred to as a set up. Both of these treatment approaches make note of physical and emotional activation in the body using the Subjective Unit of Disturbance (SUD) scale.
Both use resourcing and grounding.
EMDR and Brainspotting both have methods for helping to ensure that clients are grounded and resourced. It’s not uncommon for resources to naturally show up in an EMDR or Brainspotting session.
Therapists have to be specially trained to conduct both approaches.
EMDR and Brainspotting therapists both go through extensive specialized training, which involves understanding the neurophysiology of trauma and the brain. As part of these (separate) trainings, therapists learn how to focus on a client’s thoughts, memories, physical sensations, and emotions as a core part of the healing process.
Differences between EMDR and Brainspotting
Eye movements and eye positioning are different.
With EMDR, clients eyes are directed to move from side to side following a moving light or their therapist’s fingers. Bilateral stimulation may also occur using alternating sounds or tones, or through tappers, which are small vibrating paddles that buzz alternatively in the client’s hands (tactile stimulation).
In Brainspotting the eyes remain largely fixed on a particular spot (or spots). Brainspotting clients often use biolateral sounds, which are specifically designed to play alternatively in headphones. Many clients find these sounds to be relaxing. At times, the specific soundtrack can naturally evoke certain emotions or memories. Bilateral stimulation, however, is optional with Brainspotting as it’s not the component that makes Brainspotting work.
Each uses different devices to support therapy.
EMDR therapy and Brainspotting both use devices to support the therapeutic modalities. If you’re used to talk therapy and/or new to these approaches, these devices may look strange at first. EMDR’s devices might include a light bar, tappers or headphones to enhance bilateral stimulation. Brainspotting may include a wand, goggles or headphones. Either way, these help to enhance clients’ processing of information
The protocols have some differences.
While it’s not a client’s responsibility to understand the protocols or set up of these therapies, it may be helpful to know there are slight differences in each approach. As of the time this blog post was written, each of our therapists who are trained in Brainspotting are also trained in EMDR therapy. So, they’ll know how to navigate these protocols to best suit your personal needs.
Interested in trying either EMDR or Brainspotting?
Our bodies have a natural ability to heal, even through PTSD and complex trauma. You can read more about EMDR therapy and Brainspotting below, or check out our other specialized services here.
There is no shame in seeking the treatment you need. Contact us at 585-206-2631, or at hello@sustainablewellnessny.com to begin your healing journey.